In Europe, the citrus season is gradually coming to an end—but you’d hardly notice it on supermarket shelves. That’s because imports from overseas are now in the starting blocks. To ensure that everything runs smoothly again this year, Raphael Kennerknecht, managing director of lehmann natur, and Sebastian Zeh, head of overseas purchasing, visited South America.
“We work with various producers in Peru and Argentina. Especially now, right before the season starts, it’s invaluable to be able to talk to them directly on the ground,” says Sebastian Zeh. “It’s important for us to see what conditions are like at the beginning of the supply chain. This allows us to start the season feeling confident,” Raphael Kennerknecht adds.
Sebastian Zeh is impressed by how advanced many of the growers are when it comes to natural plant protection: “Both using beneficial insects to combat pests and special bacteria to fight plant diseases. This is particularly important in regions with higher rainfall, such as northern Argentina.”
Because demand for South American citrus products is so high, the two also discussed additional marketing opportunities. “As part of the BREADCRUMB project, we’ve been exploring for some time how we can make value chains more sustainable. Lemons with skin defects, as well as fruits that are too small or too large, usually end up in the juice industry. It would be great if more of them could find their way into retail,” said Raphael Kennerknecht.
About Lehmann Natur
lehmann natur is an importer of organic, Demeter, Naturland, and permaculture-certified fruits and vegetables. Based in Meerbusch, the company has been committed since 1988 to enabling all consumers to enjoy healthy, flavorful, and ecologically grown natural products of the highest quality. To meet its high standards for quality and sustainability in logistics as well, the company operates its own organic packing facility in Korschenbroich. Working closely with organic farmers worldwide, lehmann natur designs professional, resilient, fair, and environmentally friendly supply chains that customers and producers can rely on.
Contact person:
Albana Caraj Lehmann Natur Gesellschaft zur Erzeugung und zum Vertrieb ökologischer Produkte mbH Otto-Hahn-Straße 10 40670 Meerbusch Email: presse@lehmann-natur.com Website: www.lehmann-natur.com
Below are some highlights from the trip: