South Tyrolean apples are well known and popular in the international trade. However, there still was no own breed. On the first day of the Interpoma trade fair in Bolzano, the first South Tyrolean variety 'fengapi' was officially presented. This modern apple has much potential in the international market, says Reinhard Kaneppele, President of Feno GmbH, which deals with the promotion and development of new types of fruit.
Unique appearance and taste
After a long run-up, the variety is now finally launched. Next spring, 400,000 trees will be planted in various growing areas in Europe (South Tyrol, Germany, the Netherlands), corresponding to about 100 hectares. The previous test results are promising, says Kaneppele. ''The variety has a Ferrari-red peel and white pulp. It is usually harvested at the end of September, after which it can be stored quite easily, according to our test results. The apple is tasty, juicy and sweet, which meets the requirements of many markets,'' he says of the potential for international marketing.
They are also working at a club apple marketing concept. According to Kaneppele, the prerequisites across the three main stages of the value chain are present: ''Firstly, it the cultivation has to work out. Secondly, it has to be accepted by the consumer with regards to visuals and taste. Finally, the shelf life is of great importance.'' Furthermore, the fruit developer sees great opportunities with regard to organic farming.
'Fengapi'
"Fengapi" is a purely technical name, which consists of the three names Feno, Gala and Pink and is used exclusively for plant variety protection. The actual name of the brand has been announced at the trade fair.
New fruits
With its focus on apples, Feno is involved in the promotion and development of new varieties of fruit for domestic and foreign needs. The organization sees itself as a link between local nurseries and international business in the modern fruit sector.
For more information:
Feno GmbH
Handwerkerstr. Süd 1
39044 Neumarkt (BZ)
Tel. +39 0471 81 33 36
Fax +39 0471 82 15 07
[email protected]
www.feno.it/de