The Carota Novella of Ispica PGI season, begun in February, is continuing quite well, even if things could have turned out much better in terms of production yield. The heavy rains at the end of October 2019 affected the 15% increase of the planted areas, which were supposed to be used to supply the growing demand for the branded product (Protected Geographical Indication).
Carmelo Calabrese
"As part of the programming aimed at directing our producers towards markets and consumption trends - explained Carmelo Calabrese, president of the Consortium for the Protection of the Carota Novella of Ispica PGI - we expected and implemented an area increase, but the seeds were swept away by heavy rainfall, thwarting our plans. In the end, because of the 2020 programme, we were able to contain the loss within acceptable limits. Basically, what should have represented a +15%, has turned into a -20% on the total harvest compared to last year."
The decrease did not only concern PGI-branded crops, but affected the entire production of carrots in the Ispica area which, with its 1500 hectares, represents a significant share in the Italian production sector.
"Currently, the demand is high and the harvest, after a slight delay due to last week's rains, restarted full-time - explained the president - The production quality is excellent and the organoleptic properties are at their best, guaranteeing the high standards that satisfy our business customers and final consumers. The price of the semi-processed product (i.e. washed, selected, calibrated in big bags), is currently at 0.40 Euro per kg, with an upward trend, given the great demand mainly focused on the national market."
"In April - concluded Calabrese - we also started operating abroad, mostly trading with France, which particularly likes our fresh, healthy, good and crunchy product. The other European markets are gradually opening up, especially for those retailers who value high quality standards."
Contact:
Consorzio di Tutela Carota Novella di Ispica Igp
Via B. Spadaro, 97
97014 Ispica (RG) ITALY
Phone. +39 0932950964
Email:info@carotanovellaigp.it
Website: www.carotanovellaigp.it