Europe is opening its arms to conical peppers. Although the typology still represents 15% of the total pepper surface area in the main production region, Almeria, consumer numbers are increasing, year after year. At Enza Zaden they are experiencing a rise in sales, mainly in yellow and orange conical peppers, as well as in the mini varieties, which are enjoying a very good position on the market through their famous brand, Tribelli®. And the fact is that, as Carlos Herrerías, Pepper Product Manager, explains, “With our varieties, in addition to bringing flavour and organoleptic quality to consumers, they help farmers to become much less concerned. Thanks to the introduction of resistances to LeivellulaTaurica (Oidium), we offer greater food safety and healthier produce.”
This safety is even more important in a campaign that is full of uncertainty. The geopolitical instability and rise in prices at all levels will cause supply problems because Holland is going to produce around 15% fewer peppers. “They will be planted later, with less heating, which will mean a reduced yield. Dutch peppers will reach the markets later and their quality could be affected.”
For the Spanish sector, this could mean a good season regarding prices, for both peppers and tomatoes. “There is going to be a demand for the supply. This means that the prices should be good during the south European production campaign.”
Many new developments
At Enza Zaden, they continue working to offer materials that adapt to the chain’s needs, from farmers to consumers. “We are developing peppers along with our clients.”
The latest development that they have launched is the Prost red, conical pepper with resistance to LT, TM3, spotted and nematodes. One of its differentiating characteristics is its length, slightly shorter than other materials, which make the fruit straight and very homogeneous. Its calibre (110 g) is ideal for bags of three-coloured or one-coloured peppers.
To complete Prost’s quality line, they have added the orange pepper, E20C10405, and a new yellow one, E20C10403, also with resistance to LT, TM3 and spotted.
In California peppers, Enza Zaden is the only company that offers three colours with resistance to LT, TM3 and spotted: Navel (orange), with which they are market leaders; Carrizo (yellow) with an early, high production; and Vanadio (red), the main reference amongst producers who are looking for the ideal size for flow packs.
