"At the end of the month I will start marketing my organic grapes, but the opening of the 2020 campaign will be marked by the launch of a completely biodegradable and compostable packaging. The aim is to offer added value to the product, which is already exceptional in terms of brix degrees, berry size and organoleptic characteristics, ensuring the final consumer a product already packaged with materials that neither pollute the content nor the environment". This was explained to FreshPlaza by Antonio Bernardi, grape grower and owner of the Clarabella Bio winery in Castellaneta Marina (Taranto).
"The two types of packaging available are Mater-Bi, a biopolymer derived from corn and sunflower starch, and R-PET. These are 400g trays, still currently being developed by Divispack srl, which will be commercialized both in Italy and in various European markets. A very practical and economical packaging (about 1.50 euro per pack), ready to carry with you to the beach or to the office, which will first contain the Black Magic variety and then continue with the seedless Melissa and Crimson."
On the left, a prototype tray made in a sample PET film. On the right, clusters of the early variety Mistery, a niche production of the company.
"What distinguishes my grapes, which are rigorously certified, are the cultivation techniques. We use beetroot molasses, laurel decoctions, rosemary and rock dust, the latter useful for reducing humidity and releasing heavy metals. While standard fruits need to be washed thoroughly, it is recommended not to do so for my grapes, in order to prevent the hoarfrost (a natural substance, with a waxy consistency, which is produced by the superficial cells of the skin of the fruit and leaves, NdR) from coming off."
Contact:
Azienda Agricola Biologica Clarabella Bio
Contrada Carabella podere 3,
74011 Castellaneta Marina TA
Phone.: (+39) 339 743 2710
Email: antberna@libero.it
Facebook: Aziendabioclarabella