Italy now has 896 products with a PGI label, now that the "Fragola della Basilicata" has also been officially recognized with the protected geographical indication. This is an important milestone for strawberry growers in this southern Italian region.
© Vincenzo Iannuzziello | HortiDaily.com
Salvatore Pecchia, president of Comitato Promotore Fragola della Basilicata IGP, comments on this result with enthusiasm: "We have to thank every single actor along the chain: The producers for the sacrifices, efforts and investments made over more than 50 years; the Producer Organisations for their ability to establish a system; the agronomists and technicians for the passion, professionalism and competence with which they have contributed to the growth of the sector; and the buyers and other commercial partners for having believed in strawberry growing in Lucania, showing constant interest in supplying a product that is now recognised for its value and territorial identity."
"We managed to obtain the PGI mark in just two years. We had all the requirements needed, also in light of the new European regulations - a sign of an organised, cohesive supply chain capable of forming a critical mass. We are talking about a system in which many businesses of national and international importance coexist, active not only in the production of fresh fruit, but also in breeding, and in the sale and distribution of seedlings and packaging."
© Comitato Promotore Fragola della Basilicata IGP
In a few months' time, the Consortium will be set up, gathering the eleven POs affiliated to the Committee, which today cover around 800 hectares. The Consortium will have the task of promoting and protecting PGI strawberries from Basilicata, involving both associated and non-associated producers.
On the production side, the president points to a climate of confidence: "For the next strawberry season, there will be a slight increase in cultivated areas. Transplanting is complete, and the current weather conditions are favourable for plant development without any particular issues. We are ready to face a new year with enthusiasm and with the knowledge that we represent an excellence recognised at European level."
For more information:
Salvatore Pecchia (Strawberry PGI Committee Coordinator)
[email protected]
