Packaging that is not only nice to look at but also provides information to consumers is needed. What is more, producers should sort the produce beforehand so as to increase their profits.
Roberto Piazza during his report in Marradi
During the Eurocasta symposium held on 14th September 2017 in Marradi, expert Roberto Piazza talked about chestnut commercialisation. Piazza showed a few photographs of the products sold abroad - for example, Spain is much more advanced than Italy. But it's still nothing compared to the roasted chestnuts from China.
Roasted chestnuts from China
"I try everything and I must say chestnuts from China were not bad at all. This is why I say that the Italian system must modernise and adapt to market demands. Is it possible that we cannot prepare a ready-to-eat product using Italian raw material at a competitive price?"
Piazza, who has over forty years of experience working with the wholesale market, reported that wholesale trades almost half of chestnuts available. "Sometimes I check the labels of Italian products and they aren't always truthful. Our operators need to work better. Of course there are professionals, but the average could improve."
Packaging needs to improve. "We cannot still sell chestnuts in old 25 kg potato sacks. We need appealing packaging filled with information on how to cook or use the product."
Italian chestnut cultivation needs to step up. High-quality products must be available on the market for at least two months promoting their territory of origin.
Italian chestnut cultivation needs to step up. High-quality products must be available on the market for at least two months promoting their territory of origin.