"In just a few weeks, we will commence harvesting the first crops of our Apulian common clementines. Production and size are good, due to the fertile soil rich in groundwater which has enabled the fruit to withstand the prolonged period of drought and high temperatures. Despite ongoing irrigation, temperatures remain high, which is affecting pigmentation. Of greater concern is the impact on profit margins: when all is said and done, we barely cover our costs in the face of the challenges posed by climate change," says Luciano Latorraca, owner of the Patemisco farm, which specialises in the production and processing of Navel-type clementines and blond pulp oranges.
The photo shows Luciano Latorraca engaged in an exclusive Zoom video call with Kyoto University. During the call, the clementine producer shared the farm's history and values
Patemisco, an Apulian company founded in 1965, has built a strong reputation over the years for the production and marketing of high-quality oranges, including the Fukumoto, Navel, and Navelate varieties, as well as clementines, featuring the exclusive Clemenruby variety. Approximately 700 tonnes of citrus fruits are produced in the Massafra area of Apulia, spanning 80 hectares. A portion of the land has been replanted with varieties that are more resistant to disease and adverse weather conditions, including early and late-season varieties. The brand has also recently undergone a significant transformation with the conversion of its entire production to organic. This shift was driven by the successful commercial outcomes observed in the natural production segment. Consequently, lower yields per hectare result in higher quotations.
Both the fresh market production line and the processed product are marketed as Patemisco. Clementine juices are in high demand due to their innovative positioning in the market compared to traditional citrus fruit flavours.
The fruit is harvested and processed in order to extract the juice, which is then filtered and pasteurised and subsequently bottled in a 200 ml format. The clementine compote is produced using minimal processing, with a low sugar content and no thickeners or colouring agents. Its unique composition comprises a high proportion of fruit (75% fruit content) combined with the addition of 25% sugar.
Among the novelties introduced is the allocation of twenty hectares of citrus groves to a blond variety of Chislett Summer Navel® orange, with a ripening period of March-April. The tree is comparable to Lane Late, but displays greater vigour and a more rapid onset of production. The fruit has a bright orange colour and a high content of citric acid and sugar. The taste profile is therefore excellent.
In Italy," concludes Luciano Latorraca, "the marketing campaign is currently in full swing, with the navel orange harvest starting earlier than in recent seasons. This year, with very high fruit prices on the shelves and very low production offers, we are very worried and discouraged by the drop in consumption."
Patemisco's reference sales channels in Italy are general markets throughout the country for fresh produce and specialised shops, bars and restaurants for processed products.
For more information:
Azienda Agricola Patemisco
Luciano Latorraca
Strada comunale, 48
74016 Massafra (TA) - Italy
Tel.: +39 099 8855964
Tel.: +39 333 7670020
[email protected]
www.patemisco.i