While there is a growing interest in dried fruit due to its nutritional benefits, the sector is facing challenges due to rising raw material costs from overseas suppliers. For instance, Californian almonds are currently priced higher than those from Italy or Spain.
"California-sourced almonds, typically harvested in August or September, will be transported by sea to Europe, with an average shipping time of approximately 40 days. We will soon be able to ascertain the outcome. In any case, since last May, California has lost its competitive advantage. Historically, almonds from California were priced at less than 1 euro per kg, compared to the Mediterranean variety. However, today, California almonds are priced at 1 euro more per kg than the domestic product. This increase is attributed to a decline in production resulting from unfavourable weather conditions, coupled with an upsurge in demand," according to Francesco Di Sano, the sole director of the Sicilian Di Sano Group Srl.
The Di Sano Group was established in 2005 in Bronte, a Sicilian city renowned for its pistachio production. Over the years, the company has developed, refined and improved its operational processes, with a particular focus on the adoption of increasingly modern tools and machinery.
The company was formed as a result of a merger between two previous entities: the companies La Mediterranea and Verde dell'Etna, whose activities included the processing of dried fruit (shelling, selection and peeling) and the production of semi-finished products, creams and pestos.
California is the world's leading producer of almonds, accounting for an estimated 80% of global supply. Of this, 33% is consumed domestically and the remaining 67% is exported. Due to the long shelf life of the product, sea freight rather than air is typically used for international shipments. The second largest producer of almonds is Australia, with a 7% share of global production, followed by Spain with 4%. In recent years, the almond market has benefited from health trends associated with a plant-based diet and from effective marketing initiatives that have contributed to the increased nut consumption, even in certain nutrition regimes.
"The drought has had a significant impact on production in Sicily and Apulia, with Spain being the only country to have product. We were among the first to produce organic dried fruit, a market that is experiencing renewed growth, particularly in international markets. Our processed almonds, hazelnuts and pistachios, including our range of spreadable creams and pestos under the Le Buone Buone brand, are distributed to a diverse customer base, comprising both small and large clients. The new premium line, launched and presented at Cibus under the Le Amelie brand, is aimed at specialised retailers, typically high-end delicatessen shops and shops with a strong focus on local produce."
The range of almonds, hazelnuts and pistachios comprises the following items:
- Almonds, hazelnuts and pistachios in shell;
- Almonds, hazelnuts and pistachios;
- Almonds, hazelnuts and natural pistachios;
- Roasted almonds, hazelnuts and pistachios;
- Almond, hazelnut and pistachio flour (100 g / 500 g / 1 kg / 10 kg);
- Almond, hazelnut and pistachio paste (1 kg / 10 kg / 25 kg). 
One of our primary objectives is to resume production of organic raw materials, a market segment we believe has considerable potential. "These products are in line with our commitment to environmental responsibility and people's health," says Francesco Di Sano. "It is important to note that organic production methods are designed to be natural and less invasive, aligning with the growing consumer demand for products that promote well-being. Despite the challenging circumstances, we remain confident in the potential of this market segment, thanks in part to our long-standing customer relationships. We are committed to maintaining continuity of supply and ensuring that our products are carefully managed at every stage of the production process."
Our company supplies the food industry with peeled almonds, grains, flours, and almond paste in 1,000 and 2,000 litre packages. We currently generate 80% of our turnover in Sweden, Germany, France and Poland, and we are also expanding our presence in Canada and Australia. Our organic raw material is used extensively in Sweden by major brands for the preparation of health mixes, with specific functional values for every need and occasion of consumption.
For more information:
Di Sano Group Srl
Via San Nicola, 7
95034 Bronte (CT) - Italy
Tel.: +39 095 691405
[email protected]
www.disanogroup.com