Many requirements are, rightly so, imposed on fruit and vegetable cultivation. Problems arise when different supermarkets use different protocols and limits than the various certificates offer. And once growers choose a specific option and their products only meet some buyer requirements, it limits their sales freedom. To maintain that marketing freedom and meet society's increasing demand for sustainability, growers are increasingly cultivating residue-free crops.
Sustainable
In Italy, Azienda Agricola Gambaro has specialized in baby leaf lettuce cultivation for more than 20 years. Eight years ago, this company began changing the way it farms. José Sanz says by choosing the Zero Residue cultivation method, Gambaro is responding to the profound changes in the world. "Gambaro opted to take the sustainability path, mainly by adopting Zero Residue Agriculture. After a long run-up period to meet the protocol's strict requirements, Gambaro became officially certified in April this year."
Symbiosis
Owner Paolo Gambara explains that new growing processes like symbiotic horticulture are used to find a natural balance. "Symbiosis uses microorganisms that benefit healthy plant growth to improve the soil. Analyzing zero-residue products show zero chemical molecules besides phytosanitary substances permitted in organic farming, as long as they're within the maximum 50% RMA limits for that particular plant-based product."
Dutch market
Gambaro plans to venture into the Dutch market. José thinks the Italian baby leaf mix will do well in that market with retailers and food service buyers alike. He expects the high quality will appeal to the Dutch buying public, familiar with modern, high-quality growing methods. Also, the mix - which includes classic and oriental lettuce varieties like arugula, red and green mizuna, red mustard, valerian, and pak choi - can be grown more cheaply in Italy, says José. That is thanks to the country's favorable climate.
Gambaro is certified under the Zero Residu protocol. That means their products have legally permitted levels of chemicals below the analytical limit of determination (0.01 ppm) and residues of pesticides allowed in organic farming, per Annex I of EU Regulation 2021/1165, within the 50% limit of the maximum residue limit.
For more information:
Azienda Agricola Gambaro
José Sanz
Mob: (0) 620 820 218
Email: josesanzortiz@gmail.com
Website: www.gambaro.green