"It wasn't easy to find Radicchio outside Veneto, while now it is available all over Italy. Its popularity has skyrocketed in the past ten years, most of all because of its wide range. There are five basic types, which can be used differently. They make it possible to be quite creative and they also last longer compared to other leaf vegetables."
"But we mustn't forget all the effort producers put into it as, thanks to them, round chicory is available throughout the year."
Radicchio. (Archive photo)
The Radicchio season has recently started. "This autumn, the weather is affecting production, especially for the earliest varieties. Production is delayed, so wholesale prices have increased. The situation should stabilise over the next few days though. Prices are in line with the past season for what concerns other types of red chicory."
Late varieties should be available towards the end of October, though it is still too early to make an assessment as "production depends on the weather. If it's good, volumes can double. However, while red chicory is quite popular, the later varieties are not as well-known."