"The 'Bastardoni' campaign (a variety of prickly pears obtained through a cultivation technique called 'scozzolatura', which involves the elimination of the first flowering of the plants) is recording a 30% drop compared to the primofiore or 'agostano' prickly pears, of which we are still harvesting the last batches," says Chiara Mazzone, owner of Azienda Agricola Scollo Sebastiana.
"Prices in the field fluctuate between €0.25 and €0.35 /kg. Market quotations for larger grades hover around €2-2.50/kg. The cost of harvesting and the difficulty in finding seasonal labour are the main critical points for profitability. There is also a growing consumer interest in prickly pear blades, which are valued for their beneficial properties."
© Azienda Agricola ScolloChiara Mazzone, owner of the family-run farm Agricola Scollo Sebastiana.
The family-run farm combines tradition and innovation. It is entirely converted to organic farming and produces prickly pears, oranges, and extra virgin olive oil. In recent years, the company has strengthened its direct contact with consumers through its social media pages and the company website. Investments have been made in plant renewal and crop diversification, introducing mandarins, lemons, grapefruits, and late oranges. The aim is to expand the offer, while maintaining high standards of quality, sustainability, and innovation. Future plans include new exotic fruits such as avocados and mangoes.
© Azienda Agricola Scollo
Interest in prickly pears has been fuelled by promotional and research activities that have highlighted both their goodness and health benefits. Consumers appreciate the fruit for its tasty, crisp, and firm flesh, as well as for its health qualities, as it is rich in vitamins and minerals. All parts of the prickly pear are used, from the flowers to the leaves.
© Azienda Agricola Scollo
Climate change, in particular drought and bad weather, has negatively affected production volumes and fruit quality. This year, the area of Pedagaggi (SR) suffered hailstorms, the last one in mid-August, and even a whirlwind in early summer. These events caused significant damage to both crops in production and new plantings.
Chiara Mazzone adds that "As far as the citrus fruit campaign is concerned, the first blond pulp oranges (Navel) are expected at the end of October. Blood oranges (Tarocco Comune) will come into production between December and January. We have started a plant renewal programme, uprooting old varieties and replanting new cultivars such as Moro, Tarocco Rosso, Navelanelate, and Tarocco Meli. The objective is to ensure a greater continuity of supplies, diversify the production calendar, and cover the late harvest segment."
© Azienda Agricola Scollo
The commercial strategy has seen a specialisation in online sales, which has been flanked by the offer of local organic products at the request of customers. Chiara Mazzone explains that, initially, production was distributed through local traders. Later, the company became affiliated with producer organisations, including OPI Sicula.
© Azienda Agricola Scollo
In recent years, the focus has shifted to direct sales via the company website and purchasing groups. This approach aims to shorten the supply chain, establish a direct relationship with consumers, and achieve more sustainable profit margins.
For more information:
© Azienda Agricola Scollo
Azienda Scollo Sebastiana
Via Regina Margherita, 14
96013 Pedagaggi (SR)
+39 350 038 2368
[email protected]
www.aziendascollosebastiana.it
