Situated between Pachino and Portopalo in southeastern Sicily, the family-run business cultivates its distinctive tomato varieties under the "Sapìto - Il Gusto del Pomodoro" brand. Their selection primarily comprises beefsteak, plum, and cherry tomatoes. Vincenzo Di Natale emphasizes the importance of specialization for maintaining competitiveness: "We focus on achieving superior flavor, shape, and extended shelf life, as these are the key attributes demanded by our commercial partners."
[caption id="attachment_24829" align="aligncenter" width="600"]
View of the growing area[/caption]
"We rely on several crucial elements in our practices: foremost, irrigation with brackish water, which induces a carefully balanced stress to enhance flavor. Additionally, soilless cultivation aids in preventing soil-borne diseases. Lastly, we utilize beneficial insects for natural pollination, enabling us to operate in a more sustainable manner."
[caption id="attachment_24831" align="aligncenter" width="600"]
Detail of a plum tomato bunch. Fruits are bright red[/caption]
"Our greenhouses are referred to as 'cold' because they don't require heating or artificial lighting to create optimal growth conditions, resulting in a significantly low carbon footprint. These attributes are highly valued by stakeholders who prioritize health and sustainability in their policies."
[caption id="attachment_24833" align="aligncenter" width="600"]
Partial view of a pallet of "Sapito" crates[/caption]
The company cultivates its produce across five hectares and supplies major markets in northern Italy, such as Milan, Turin, Bologna, Fondi, and beyond. Additionally, through a dedicated partner, a significant portion is exported to Switzerland and Great Britain. With certifications including GlobalGAP, GRASP, and Nickel Free, the company offers added value by addressing the needs of individuals (approximately 5% of the global population) with allergies.
[caption id="attachment_24835" align="aligncenter" width="599"]
Composition of the company's leading products: plum, beefsteak, and cherry tomatoes.[/caption]