Almost all of the limes available in Italy come from Brazil and Mexico. At the moment (late April/early May), prices are not very high due to the low temperatures and abundant quantities on the market.
Photo by MM
This is what was reported by Paolo Bernardi from F.lli Cazzola, agent for Centro agroalimentare di Bologna (Caab). Limes are a citrus fruit mainly used by bars preparing cocktails and aperitifs (99%). There aren't many families storing some at home. They are mostly used in summer to make soft and alcoholic drinks.
"In addition to Mexico and Brazil, other nations that can export limes are Peru, Colombia and Venezuela. For what concerns quality, Brazilian limes tend to have a softer flavour and more juice. The Mexican produce has a longer shelf-life, so the colour remains green for longer."
Wholesale prices are currently very low at €1.50-2.00. The fact is that temperatures dropped drastically over the past 15 days and patrons prefer to drink whisky or grappa rather than a mojito.
"The produce takes 3-4 weeks by sea to reach our ports. We receive 250-260 package pallets containing 4.5 kg crates. In Italy, only 3-4 distributors receive the produce directly, while there are many more in the Netherlands."