In the case of cherries, the situation is compromised, while problems for apricots are limited to the early segment; for the medium and medium-late crops, however, yields should meet quality requirements. This is a snapshot of the situation provided by Vincenzo Finelli, director of Italy's Orogel Fresco cooperative.
Vincenzo Finelli director Orogel Fresco
"Our members were minimally affected by the flood. Some reported problems with landslides up in the hills. However, by all accounts, and considering the flood damage, there will be a maximum of 10 percent contractions in the availability of fruit. By contrast, we had previously experienced problems due to frost, hailstorms and excessive rain."
"Specifically," continued the director, "the heavy rains damaged most of the cherry harvest, while the early segment apricots will suffer from cracking. These damaged apricot crops will not even be absorbed by the industrial sector since the industries will only open in the coming days, when much of this product will be irreparably compromised and therefore no longer suitable."
Regarding the flood, Finelli believes that "in the total count of Italian fruit and vegetables in the 2023 crop year, there won't be an oversupply, but there will be a lack of stone fruit in the mid-July-mid-August period, which is the calendar window when most of the production comes from Emilia Romagna."
However, Orogel Fresco will guarantee its best crops. "Our premium lines, primarily fruit under the 'Le Meraviglie' brand, will be on the market starting in July at the same time the fruit is at its finest in terms of organoleptic qualities. We will likely have fewer quantities available, but those released on the markets will be guaranteed," concluded the director.
For more information:
Orogel Fresco 
Via Emilia 3800
47020 Longiano (FC) - Italy
+39 0547 651860
www.orogelfresco.it