Prices are high for persimmons, pushed by a lively demand and low availability. "Grades 24-26 are sold at €1.70-2/kg wholesale. It is a good price, but we also need to bear in mind that it is the start of the campaign," explains Mirco Zoffoli from Mi.Frutta.
Things are anyway looking good, as production is below that of a normal year by on average 20-30%, at least in northern Italy. And, most of all, because grades are bigger than average.
Mirco Zoffoli cooperates with Domenico Laghi, a leading business in Forlì
"The drops in early summer, hailstorms and brown marmorated stink bug have contributed to lowering yields. However, quality has remained great. Last year, for example, volumes were more abundant with lower grades and, in fact, prices were not satisfactory."
"The Spanish produce is already available in Italy, as the varieties grown are earlier. Nonetheless, Italian consumers tend to look for domestic produce. I have got in touch with various Spanish producers who confirmed that their productions are within the norm."
This is the situation when it comes to traditional persimmons, the so called Kako Tipo. When it comes to Rojo Brillante, Italy is growing but it has yet to reach the levels of Spain. "We need earlier varieties, suitable agronomic techniques and, most of all, suitable unit management. I believe consumers will increasingly demand Rojo Brillante in the short term."
Contacts:
Mi.Frutta
via Melona 1047
47522 Cesena - Italy
Cell.: (+39) 335 7710710
Email: mircozoffoli@gmail.com
Website: www.mifrutta.it