"High temperatures affect cultivation. For example, fennels grown in Fucino suffer from a lack of temperature variation. Lettuce, too, experiences stress from prolonged periods of high heat. Cultivating under these conditions is increasingly challenging," says Andrea Pignato, sales manager at Fellini Patrizio, who, along with salesman Luca Zucconelli, provides an update on the current situation and prospects.

"At this stage, there isn't much product on the market," they say, "and prices are generally in line with expectations. The problem is that we seem to be on a roller coaster: there are periods of surplus caused by overlapping transplants, followed by periods of scarcity. Planning is becoming increasingly difficult."

One item performing exceptionally well, even exceeding expectations, is Crunchy lettuce. "Large-scale retail chains are becoming familiar with it and are in demand. Consumers appreciate it, and this season we produce it directly on our farm '67', along with other types of lettuce, ensuring we control the entire supply chain. It is a special product that is giving us great satisfaction."

A new feature is the packaging for Gentilina, Trocadero, and Romana lettuce: it is an open bag (top and bottom), ideal for selling by the piece and saving space. While it can still be sold by weight, it is also suitable for single servings.

"On the fennel front," Pignato and Zucconelli conclude, "we select only the best lots that meet our quality standards. There is a limited amount of product on the market, and demand is also relatively low."

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com