"We have bought a new farm with previously unused land where we will plant 60 hectares of organic pineapples, using a plastic coating which will help reduce the use of organic agrochemicals necessary for the control of pests," explains Joselyn Villalobos Salas, of the company VISA Agricultural Products, of Costa Rica.
The firm produces and exports pineapples to different markets worldwide, especially to the Netherlands, where Aartsenfruit is its exclusive importer.
VISA currently has 800 hectares devoted to the production of conventional pineapples, and a month ago the company introduced organic cultivation.
While this requires a more careful treatment, the yield per hectare of organic pineapples and the calibres that can be achieved are the same as those of conventional fruit. "The main difference is the number of harvests we can obtain per year; plant stress cannot be induced artificially, so you need to wait for it to happen naturally, which takes almost twice as long; but, in return, the longer the fruit is on the plant the more you taste the excellent sweetness," points out Joselyn.
Piñas Joselyn, VISA'S sweet premium pineapple
Obviously, with the longer time needed and the extra costs associated with its production, prices must be higher to justify the investment. The company stated that a box of organic pineapples is usually about 4 U.S. dollars more expensive than that of conventional fruit.
"Approximately $10 are being paid at the moment, and there is much interest from the U.S. market and Dutch importers. Consumers are paying very good prices for this pineapple and we believe demand will stay strong," affirms Joselyn.
Aid to local communities
VISA is carrying out several projects for the benefit of local communities. For each pineapple box marketed by the company, a percentage of the price goes to help various institutions.
"We make donations to churches, schools, nursing homes and different organizations. When customers buy pineapples from VISA they are not only purchasing quality fruit, but also helping to improve the quality of life for residents of the communities surrounding the farms," concludes Joselyn.
More information:
Joselyn Villalobos Salas
Productos Agropecuarios VISA
T: +506 2473-3112 ext. 115
jvillalobos@visasa.com
www.visasa.com