"With over 150 hectares destined to canary yellow melon cultivation, we are one of the youngest companies in the sector and operate in western Sicily. There are also around ten hectares of black melons, known as purceddu," explains Antonio Fasullo from Jato Fruits, a young dynamic company that aims at conquering this segment.
Antonino "Tony" Fasullo
"Although I am only 30, my family's farming tradition goes back three generations. I was basically born in the fields and my father's collaborators taught me about understanding nature."
"Of course we are looking towards the future and have started dealing with Italian big retailers directly, equipping ourselves with the most suitable certifications (e.g. GlobalGAP), but we want to go beyond the national borders as we believe our productions are excellent."
Video interview with Antonino Fasullo - Jato Fruits
"This year, we focused on Kosmos, a canary yellow melon that stands out for its homogeneous ripening and grades, which are perfect for commercialization in crates. The flesh is white and presents no defects. It is characterized by a small triangular hole. The flavor is intense, fresh and sweet. We aim at promoting Kosmos melons over the next few years."
Thanks to the crops located at various altitudes (from 300 to 500 meters asl), Kosmos is suitable for both early (May) and late (July) transplants.
"This year, despite the exceptional production, we have not done as well commercially. Prices rarely rose beyond €0.25/kg and, over the past few days, they stabilized at €0.18-0.20/kg. Unfortunately the weather delayed the season by almost a month and, when summer fruit consumption picked up, we had to compete with other products. Nonetheless, the warm weather of the past few days could lead to an improvement. Anyway the fresh produce will be available until 20th October."
"Neros melons will also be available over the next few weeks (see photos above). Harvesting ended some time ago and the fruit is now in our warehouses. It is a niche product appreciated for its unique taste and intense aroma."
Contacts:
Jato Fruits
Via G. Marconi, 10 
90048 - San Giuseppe Jato (PA) – ITALY
Tel.: +39 3387301131
Email: tony.fas@alice.it