Janny MT, a company specialized in post-harvesting, is working hand in hand with Italian companies to improve the quality of the Melannurca Campana apple - also known as the "queen of apples" - during storage, using controlled atmosphere modules. This apple has been the subject of research in this area in recent years.
© Janny MT
The Melannurca gets its uniform red color from a very specific growing method
This unusual apple is the result of "unique know-how" from the south of Italy, and the Campania region in particular. Its characteristic red color is due to the way the fruit is ripened. The apples are harvested by hand before they are ripe, to prevent them from falling off and spoiling. They are then placed on the ground, exposed to the sun, and turned regularly. This allows them to gradually acquire their specific red color naturally and uniformly.
Improving the quality and shelf life of Melannurca Campana apples
For the past two years, Janny MT has been supporting Melannurca apple growers by offering its expertise in post-harvest conservation. This collaboration was set up with the company Plastica Campania to ensure that the product is available quickly and locally in southern Italy. "This initiative is part of a research project involving France and Italy, which is mobilizing a number of experts to improve the quality and preservation of apples, with excellent results from an agronomic, technical, and commercial point of view," explains Benoît Janny, director of Janny MT.
"A major technical and strategic step forward"
With this in mind, an information meeting entitled "Tecnomela" was organized at the beginning of 2025 at Giaccio frutta to present the research work on the Melannurca apple. The results of the conservation of Melannurca apples in Janny MT modules were presented to a large number of growers. The Crea di Milano research center's protocol is due to end in June 2025. "The results of an 8-month conservation period in a Janny MT controlled atmosphere are eagerly awaited by all those involved in the sector. The success of this program will guarantee the marketing of quality apples and the production of additional volumes between March and June. On a regional scale, this is a major technical and strategic advance. This applied research shows just how important it is to work within the sector."
© Janny MT
New development opportunities for independent producers
Independent producers are seizing new development opportunities. This is the case of Azienda Ager Calenus, which is breaking new ground by incorporating Janny MT modules into its research and development program. "This family-run farm is dedicated to fruit growing. It harvests according to rules and methods inherited from a long tradition, combined with a modern, sustainable approach. Today, it has become a benchmark in the production of Melannurca Campana apples, focusing on quality and respect for the fruit's specific characteristics. This Franco-Italian collaboration brings new expertise to producers in the Neapolitan region, with the aim of promoting Melannurca apples on new markets.
For more information:
Benoit Janny
Janny MT
1903 route de lanques
71260 Peronne - France
[email protected]
www.jannymt.com
