Italian kiwi producer organizes event to raise awareness of organic kiwi supply chain

The Apofruit facility in Longiano (Forlì-Cesena, Emilia Romagna) recently welcomed members of the press and influencers to demonstrate how the organic fruit and veg supply chain operates. This tour had a particular focus on kiwi.

The event emerged as part of the It's Bio initiative, a European project promoting organic production methods within the fruit and veg sector across Italy, Belgium, and Greece. Over the last two years, the IT'S BIO project has organized workshops in sales points, open fields, and culminated in a recent event carried out on December 5 by Apofruit.

AOP Gruppo Vi.Va., an association comprising 12 producer organizations, promotes the project. These organizations cultivate approximately 23,000 hectares, with 15,000 dedicated to fruit and just over 8,000 to horticulture.

During the Longiano event, it was highlighted that despite a reduction in volumes due to climatic factors, the season of Almaverde organic kiwifruit (both green and yellow) has been positive. The market response has been favorable, driven by the high quality of the product, including its medium-high size and brix degree.

Paolo Pari, Director of Almaverde Bio, anticipates positive final results for the ongoing organic fruit and veg season. Specifically, Organic Almaverde Islands have experienced substantial growth, boasting a 32% increase by the end of October due to new openings throughout the year.

Italy produces 311 thousand tons of kiwis within the overall European production of 755 thousand tons, according to Iko - International Kiwifruit Organization. Lazio claims the top spot among regions with 33% of the surfaces, followed by Piedmont with 17%, and Emilia Romagna with 15%, according to Cso Italy.

Funded by the European Union and AOP Gruppo Vi.Va., the It's Bio project features the collaboration of Almaverde Bio, Apofruit, Codma OP, Ca' Nova, Coop Sole, AOP La Mongolfiera, OrtoRomi, and OP Terre di Bari. This collaborative effort marks a pivotal stride toward advancing organic agriculture and fostering sustainable practices across the continent.

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