Leader in the production, Italy experiences decline in its domestic consumption

Italy is one of the leading producers of fruits and vegetables in Europe and worldwide.

Italy produces about 36 million tons of fruits and vegetables (18 million tons of fruits, 14 million tons of vegetables, 4,000,000 tons of citrus) with certain products, European production records (peaches, pears , kiwis) and world records (artichokes).

Indeed, for the production of peaches and nectarines Italy holds the first place in Europe with 43% of total production, as well as for the production of pears (35%) and kiwi (70%). In vegetables, Italy is the largest producer of tomatoes (37% of total) and one of the first for lettuce (22%) and melons (32%).

However, this remarkable production did not increase domestic consumption. The continuing decline, observed Paolo Bruni President of CSO, average expenditures of fruits and vegetables now represent only 3% of total family expenditures. The project "Ortofrutta d'Italia ", initiated by the CSO, must explain to consumers the importance of eating fruits and vegetables of the season, and enable the doubling of everyday purchases to ensure greater health and well-being.

source : via emilia net it, ansa it