Growing consumer interest in the health properties of the fruit fuels new plantings in Italy
Italy is positioning itself as a European leader in the production of organic pomegranates, according to It’s Bio, the European project funded by the EU and Italian association Aop Gruppo Vi.Va to promote organic fruit and vegetables in Italy, Belgium and Greece.
As a growing number of consumers become aware of the fruit’s nutritional properties, and the sustainable way in which it is cultivated, Italian farms are investing in innovative technologies to ensure a high-quality product.
“Thanks to the favorable climate, the main production areas, such as Puglia and Sicily, offer pomegranates with a unique and unmistakable flavour,” It’s Bio said. “In terms of cultivation, organic pomegranate is resistant to drought and pathogens, therefore it lends itself very well to organic production by choosing the most recent varieties such as the very productive Wonderful with excellent organoleptic and taste quality.”
Organic pomegranates are rich in antioxidants, especially polyphenols, it helps to combat oxidative stress and support the cardiovascular system. They are also an important source of vitamin C, potassium, and fibre, as well as being low in calories.
“We have seen growing interest in this fruit with excellent organoleptic characteristics,” said Mirco Zanotti, president of Aop Gruppo Vi.Va. “The production of pomegranates within the AOP involves the associated OP Sole, Apofruit Italia, and Codma. Furthermore, a partnership has been developed between the associated OP OrtoRomi, Apofruit Italia, and the Canova brand for the production of a line of organic extracts obtained with an innovative cold process without the addition of water, preservatives or sugars.”
It’s Bio is a project funded by the European Union and AOP Gruppo Vi.Va., with the participation of Almaverde Bio, Apofruit, Codma OP, Canova, Coop Sole, AOP La Mongolfiera, OrtoRomi and OP Terre di Bari.
