"I have been working in horticulture in a highly specialised context since I was a child. It is a world that fascinates me and that, through ups and downs, has accompanied us until today. Right now, we are experiencing a clear upturn in business thanks to the trust of consumers," reports Giuseppe Licata, owner of the Sicilian family-run company Berdia Ortofrutticola, based in Vittoria (RG).
© Berdia OrtofrutticolaGiuseppe Licata and Salvatore Gurrieri
"Our flagship product is the Sicilian climbing beans grown sustainably in low environmental impact greenhouses, and which we are promoting outside the local market with interesting commercial results. Our green beans are, in fact, conquering the market with constant and growing demand, also thanks to their counter-seasonal positioning. In addition, green beans are really good for health, and therefore, the basis of a balanced diet. Thanks to their diuretic and refreshing properties, they help the digestive system and, thanks to their good dose of minerals, they also help replenish the body's valuable substances."
© Berdia Ortofrutticola
"The difference between the variety we grow the most and those of our competitors is evident both in the field and when consumed. Plants are vigorous and very productive, which is a desirable parameter. Another element that supports high quality is the sweetness and tenderness of the green beans: in fact, it is enough to blanch them to obtain an ideal consistency for quick and tasty side dishes."
© Berdia Ortofrutticola
Photo taken at Macfrut 2024.
"We have increased the volumes thanks to the expansion of the cultivated areas, which have risen from the initial 5000 square metres to the current 5 hectares. Our commercial channel of choice is wholesale markets, mainly in northern Italy, although we are in the process of getting structured to enter the big retail chain platforms. Among the strengths of our production is precisely the counter-seasonal release of this product, from October to July."
© freshplaza On the plants, green beans are found in abundant clusters of straight pods, which are easy to pick and place in boxes. The high yields and low operating costs allow a more rational use of the greenhouses.
"As is well known, two of the biggest problems the fruit and vegetable sector has to face are climate change and the increasing phytosanitary pressure that comes with it. The experience and attention devoted to each individual seedling, especially in the prevention of attacks in the field, help us gradually contain the critical issues that arise. However, we would like to convey a message of optimism: we are in fact confident that we can guarantee high quality and an efficient service especially when we get into the thick of the commercial campaign between March and June."
For more information:
© Berdia Ortofrutticola
Giuseppe Licata
Berdia Ortofrutticola
C.da Berdia
97019 Vittoria (RG) - Italy
+39 331 868 2020
[email protected]
