"Completing the entire supply chain of a fresh product and processing it before it is destined for consumers is the most effective way to enhance its value. This principle not only increases profitability, but also guarantees a constant monitoring of quality parameters, which would otherwise be difficult to ensure." Stefano Longhitano and Ezio Greco, the young entrepreneurs of the Sicilian brand Criscenti, are convinced of this. The PDO Bronte Pistachio spread is among the flagship products of their processed line.
© Concetta Di Lunardo | FreshPlaza.com
Bronte, a municipality on the eastern slope of Mount Etna and in the heart of the Etna and Nebrodi Parks, is known all over the world as the "city of green gold". This name pays tribute to its production of pistachios, considered among the best in the world.
The spreads, available in the almond, hazelnut and pistachio flavours, are characterised by their high raw material content and are available in 40, 90 and 190 g glass jars. They are ideal for filling cakes and sweet breads such as panettone and colomba, but also perfect for breakfast, snacks, to garnish tarts, and spread on bread.
© Concetta Di Lunardo | FreshPlaza.com
Pistachio harvesting operations take place every other year in Bronte. The production potential is considerable, with around 32 tonnes on about 3000 hectares cultivated between 400 and 900 metres above sea level. This production accounts for 90% of Italy's and 1% of the world's production. Although the global share is small, their quality makes them highly sought after. About 80% of the harvest is exported, while the remaining 20% remains in Italy.
© Criscenti Artigiani del Gusto
This fruit is extremely versatile and is used in a wide range of preparations, from desserts such as ice cream and festive products to savoury meat and fish dishes. Mortadella with Bronte pistachios is one of the most popular specialities.
© Criscenti
The range of processed products includes several varieties, including the hazelnut spread, which encompasses the authentic flavour of hazelnuts with a 35% content of carefully-selected hazelnuts. The almond spread is a tribute to Sicilian tradition, and boasts 35% Sicilian almonds, offering a symphony of flavour and a smooth texture. For lovers of the Bronte iconic fruit, the pistachio spread features 35% Sicilian pistachios, representing the quintessence of this delicious green fruit. Finally, Pistachio Pesto stands out for its richness, as it is made with 65% selected and roasted pistachios.
© Concetta Di Lunardo | FreshPlaza.com
"The harvesting of pistachios in Bronte should start between late August and early September, weather permitting. The recent rains have counteracted the drought of recent years, so we are expecting a good year in terms of yields and volumes. We will start the fruit processing campaign from September onwards. Currently, we are engaged in the marketing of catalogue products, mainly pure pistachio, almond, and hazelnut pastes destined for ice-cream parlours, small shops, and the catering sector. We are a growing company and aim to internationalise our brand, which is already present particularly in Germany, France, and Romania with our own-brand and private-label products."
For more information:
Criscenti Artigiani del Gusto
Stefano Longhitano
Ezio Greco
Via Matteo Selvaggi, 31
95034 Bronte (CT)
+39 329 1527722
[email protected]
www.criscenti.eu
