"In 2017, we entered into a supply chain agreement with several citrus companies to process high-quality produce. Unfortunately, we are now forced to terminate the agreement with those that do not comply with the parameters established, reports Salvatore Imbesi, director of the citrus processing industries at Ortogel and Agrumi-Gel.
"The agreement allowed numerous businesses to become part of the memorandum of understanding that established precise supply chain rules, under which they undertook to supply Ortogel with produce destined for processing (about 15,000 hectares of citrus areas). Unfortunately, in recent weeks we have decided to stop accepting produce from all those companies that send citrus fruit unsuitable for processing."
There are multiple reasons behind this, the leading of which being the prestige that both companies enjoy in domestic and foreign markets with regard to the processing of top-quality juice.
A notice has been sent to suppliers, targeting only those who do not meet quality parameters at the time of delivery. The notice also stresses that the fruit must arrive at the facility in the best aesthetic, preservation, and organoleptic conditions.
"Unfortunately, we have been noticing that over 50% of the citrus fruits that arrive at the facility to be processed do not meet the parameters required. Ortogel and Agrumigel are suspending the withdrawal of citrus fruits with immediate effect and until further notice."
Processing activities are therefore temporarily suspended in order to contain the situation, protect the health of consumers and the company's reputation, and guarantee the quality and safety of citrus products.