FRUIT AND VEGETABLE NEWS

Family businesses dominate the seed sector, but succession remains a challenge
Family-owned companies account for 89% of businesses worldwide and generate more than 50% of global GDP. Seed companies face three major challenges

Lorena Basso: “My obsession is moving seeds. For that, we need aligned regulations and phytosanitary systems that work”
Argentina’s Lorena Basso, the first woman president in ISF’s 102-year history, sets out her agenda: gender equality, regulatory innovation and the free movement of seeds

Genome editing and global trade take centre stage at the World Seed Congress
More than 1,700 delegates from 75 countries attended the 2026 World Seed Congress, organised by ISF in Lisbon from 18 to 20 May

New genomic techniques (NGTs) are not a threat
Having just returned from the World Seed Congress held in Lisbon, a few ideas are still running through my mind: Why does Europe still not have access to gene editing techniques while many other countries do?

Pro Food: Food packaging is not the problem, but part of the solution
In the European packaging debate, plastic continues to be presented more as a problem to be eliminated than as a solution that can add value

Sweetloom renews its recognition for outstanding flavour
Yuksel Seeds’ heirloom tomato receives the highest distinction from the International Taste Institute for the second consecutive year

Fitó evolves its brand under the “Seeds. People. Planet.” motto
The company is entering a new stage of growth with a more cross-cutting identity, strengthened international expansion and new strategic investments in infrastructure and proximity to customers and markets

The ALIZZA Fruit™ receives the highest 3-star Superior Taste Award distinction
One of only two citrus innovations to have achieved the highest rating from the International Taste Institute, The ALIZZA Fruit™ reaffirms its position as a global benchmark in flavour, juiciness and consumer experience, while continuing to expand its presence across both hemispheres

Valencia stone fruit season ends with losses
The combination of rainfall and heat in the middle of the harvest overlapped supply and caused demand to fall sharply, especially for smaller sizes, undermining profitability.

CIV Expands into South Asia: Introducing IVAR
CIV – Consorzio Italiano Vivaisti has taken a significant step in its international growth strategy through a new partnership with India’s Qul Fruits to establish IVAR – Variety Management and Genetics Private Limited, described as South Asia’s first dedicated platform for protected fruit variety management and intellectual property stewardship

VOG strengthens its organic apple offer
A complete and balanced organic assortment, ready for the final stretch of the season: with classic varieties, distinctive brands and innovative proposals, VOG responds to increasingly diversified consumer needs and consolidates its role in the European market

European ROSETTA project discusses food waste solutions in Madrid
Agri-food experts, public officials, sector associations and private companies met in Madrid as part of the European ROSETTA project, funded by Horizon Europe, to discuss solutions aimed at reducing food waste linked to commercial standards and market practices





