Organic company develops Colombian pumpkin project
Pilot projects
"In 2016 we started a pilot in 3 different regions under supervision of our product development manager Alexander Restrepo. The growers started the project using highly selected pumpkin seeds on various small surfaces, explained Bart van der Vliet "Thanks to his agricultural background, Alexander was able to teach the growers different cultivation techniques. Based on the outcomes, we have selected one grower who has already years of experience with growing organic limes. His growing area is located in the south of Colombia at 600 meters above sea level. The first harvest of pumpkins was of good quality and this was the decisive factor for continuing the project. In March 2018 we received the first container of organic pumpkins in our warehouse in Poeldijk, The Netherlands. The first containers have been packed for a German retailer."
Harvest
Compared to other pumpkin varieties, this organic variety is harvested when the pumpkin is fully ripe and contains the correct brix value. As a result, the pumpkin will become delicious sweet and it gets a bright orange color because of the bright sun.
Future plans
"Conventional pumpkins are very popular for the local Colombian market, but organic pumpkins are real pioneer products. We want to expand the group of growers in the coming years so the export volumes will increase, with focus on quality and a delicious taste.
"For now we look back on a successful start of the Colombian pumpkin season and look forward to next year. From January to April we will have the tastiest organic pumpkins from Colombia available again!"
For more information:
Organic Trade Company Holland
Tel: +31(0) 320 289 030
[email protected]
www.otcholland.com
