“Red Delicious Apples Conquer the World: The Italian Secret for Festive Tables”
“One of the main colors of December is undoubtedly red. The Red Delicious variety, in all its numerous variations from the Italian Alps, brings a natural touch of festive spirit to the table. During the peak season, from now until May, we are always ready to accept orders and deliver worldwide,” says Enzo Garnero, sales manager at Sanifrutta, an Italian agricultural cooperative specializing in the production, processing, and packaging of fresh fruit. The headquarters are located in Costigliole Saluzzo, in the Cuneo region. Garnero is also the director of Aurum Fruit, a company specializing in the export of fruit abroad.
Apple production in Italy is estimated at over 2 million tons, with a slight decrease compared to the previous year (-1%). However, unlike the regions of South Tyrol and Trentino, Piedmont recorded an 8% increase. “This increase is due to the Red Delicious variety, which, after a decline last year, has returned to normal production levels. For other varieties, Piedmont’s production is consistent with previous years. Apples are not typically associated with Christmas. We are more accustomed to dried or exotic fruits during festive meals. However, in the European market, especially in Germany, we are seeing strong demand, likely due to the lack of local production in that country,” Garnero adds. “Germany suffered this year from late spring frosts, followed by hail in some areas, leading to a reduced harvest.”
The quality of Piedmontese apples this year is excellent. “In Piedmont, we had ideal weather conditions for apples. The weeks before and during the harvest were marked by significant temperature differences between day and night—a crucial factor for the quality and color of apples. For this reason, we can say that the quality this year is among the best in recent years. The stock reduction plans are proceeding as planned,” emphasizes Garnero.
“Over the next two months, we will continue to focus on the Gala variety. We expect the Gala stocks to be depleted by the end of February, while some Italian traders might still have stocks until the end of March. As the trade of Gala decreases, the availability and export of varieties like Red Delicious, Granny Smith, Golden, and Fuji will increase. Recently, we started exporting the Crimson Snow variety, but only for the European market. Sanifrutta is part of this club, along with companies like Rivoira, Fratelli Clementi, and VOG.”
For the Red Delicious variety, the main markets are Germany, North Africa, and India. “As for overseas exports, the Red Delicious apples are 100% waxed, adhering to American standards. In the European market, it depends on the destination market,” Garnero explains.
Logistics: A Key Factor in Export
“When it comes to fruit exports, logistics is critical. Currently, we are facing serious problems. The blockage of all transport routes through the Suez Canal in the Red Sea has severely affected some exporters. If we didn’t have excellent apple quality this year, we couldn’t afford to deliver to distant markets like India or Southeast Asia,” says Garnero. “From the nearest port, Vado Ligure, to Mumbai, it now takes at least 40 days compared to 21 days last year. The reason is a rerouted path around Africa. Transit times to other ports in India can now take up to 55 days.”
Garnero also highlights the specifics of the Indian market. “The Indian market shows interest in apples at the beginning of the season, which is quite unusual. Typically, Indians consume their local production in September, October, and November. Currently, demand in the Indian market is increasing for certain varieties, though not all. We expect a significant surge in demand in January and February, but the logistical challenges remain a major obstacle.”
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