In a few days, citrus grower Domenico Maraglino will be harvesting his limes from a plant that is now in its fourth year of production, located in the province of Taranto and managed according to organic standards.
This year, yields seem to be abundant, but at the expense of calibers. This is because the fruit is more concentrated on the vines, but this does not worry the grower, since demand is always high and operators in the sector are usually satisfied even if the product is not the best.
"The fruit's added value comes not only from the fact that it is grown in Italy, but especially because it is certified organic," says Maraglino. "In fact, thanks to the organic certification, I can obtain prices that are 60 percent higher than those of conventional plants. The calibers used this year are 4-5 cm in diameter, compared to the ideal 6 cm, sizes that do not cause any depreciation, nor does the slightly reduced juiciness. Unfortunately, as farmers, we have to deal with unusual weather patterns that affect every fruit and vegetable crop. "We had summer temperatures here in the south of Italy, until just hours ago."
Current status of the fruit crop
Maraglino explains: "The production is entirely outsourced to the Apofruit cooperative, which then handles the packaging and marketing of the limes. "It is a niche product that has not yet reached a significant market share in Italy. We are used to fruits that come exclusively from overseas. Therefore, it is a successful business strategy to present it in the form of an already well-known brand."
For further information: Azienda Agricola Maraglino Agrumi
Via San Leonardo, 34
74016 Massafra (Taranto)
+39 3456052313
maraglinoagrumi.com