It has been producing the renowned "Washington Navel" Ribera organic oranges for over 25 years without using chemicals, in compliance with organic defence principles and respecting the environment.
Simone Chetta (in the photo) explained that "the company covers 10 hectares and is located in contrada Gulfa, within the Ribera territory, part of the Denominazione di Origine Protetta Arancia di Ribera DOP. The business started with my father, Filippo Chetta, who cultivated the land inherited by his family. At the time, almonds and other crops were cultivated. In the 1970s, he started growing organic citrus fruit. He was the one who chose to cultivate produce respecting the environment, because he wasn't satisfied with traditional techniques. He had a different future in mind."
Washington Navel oranges from Ribera are not just a fruit, but a journey through a territory. They are the icon of the most genuine Sicilian flavours between culture and tradition. Washington Navel oranges have a blonde pulp, are medium-big, seedless and rich in vitamin C. An average fruit weighing 200 grams contains over 100 milligrams of vitaminc C, i.e. the daily allowance of one person.
"We export around 30% of our produce and are carrying out promising sales campaigns in northern European countries such as France, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium and Denmark."
"On the domestic market, the relationship with our clients is based on trust. We ship our produce via courier all over Italy. Our organic oranges are particularly appreciated by purchasing groups in the Brescia area. The fruit is also available at the Brescia organic market every Saturday and events such as 'Fà la cosa giusta' in Milano and Biofach in Nuremberg".
"We are also considering the production of marmalade and juice to avoid wasting what cannot be commercialised."
Company stand at Biofach in Nuremberg
"The weather hasn't been very good this year, so quantities were affected. Luckily, quality remained excellent."
Company stand at Biofach in Nuremberg
"The weather hasn't been very good this year, so quantities were affected. Luckily, quality remained excellent."
"Harvesting starts in early November with the Navel variety and continues in December with the Brasiliano variety, which is harvested until March. Clementines are harvested between November and December."
Contacts:
Azienda Agricola Chetta Simone
Viale Garibaldi, 108
92016 Ribera (AG)
Tel.: 338 1605976
Email: aziendachetta@libero.it
Web: www.aranciabiologica.it