The harvest of mountain cherries by Vip has begun in Val Venosta and will continue until mid-August. Expected volumes are around 650 metric tons, similar to the previous season, featuring significant sizes (28+).
A significant development is the inclusion of Val Venosta cherries in the premium line of a major distribution chain, highlighting the close collaboration with organized retail (GDO).
Since last year, 100% of Vip cherries have been GlobalGap certified, ensuring adoption of the best production practices. Reinhard Ladurner, sales manager for the Consortium, emphasizes: "GlobalGap has become a passport to the market, achieving immediate success."
"Our priority is to meet the needs of large-scale retail and wholesale fruit and vegetable markets, fulfilling the demand for sustainability and food safety certification of both product and production methods."
On the cultivar front, alongside classic varieties like Kordia and Regina, two new varieties, Henriette and Areko, are undergoing trials promising greater productivity while maintaining similar sensory properties. Ladurner states, "Trials are yielding excellent results. When it comes time to renew our plantings, there could be a significant investment."
This season looks promising not only in terms of production volumes but also for new market opportunities and variety innovations.
Source: Fresh Point Magazine
Image: Vip
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