Ginger continues to attract interest in Italy

"After the exponential growth of a few years ago, the ginger sector now seems to be stabilising, although there's a small but steady increase in demand every year," says Paolo Pari, Director of the Italian company Almaverde Bio, describing a product that is considered exotic for the country but has now found its way into the market and in the large-scale distribution sector.

"This is a product that can be classified as healthy, which is why the organic version is so popular. It is no coincidence that we offer it both under our own brand and as a private label. Almaverde Bio trays contain 150g, enough to keep most consumers going for several days," he adds.

Paolo Pari

In Italy, ginger is mainly used as a spice, either dried or ground. In the Far East, including Japan, but also China and South-East Asia, it is also used fresh in many dishes.

Prices for organic ginger," Pari continues, "are around €10 per kg. In general, the price range is rather narrow, unless there are negative events in the production areas. Other than that, prices are generally fairly stable, and the logistical aspect has a big impact on them."

"We buy ginger either in China or South America," says Paolo Pari, director of Almaverde Bio, "depending on the season. It is certified organic both in Italy and in the country of origin, in accordance with international regulations."

Almaverde Bio has had it in its catalogue for about ten years, due to growing interest. Blogs, magazine articles and nutritionists praise its nutraceutical qualities, and consumers use it to prepare herbal teas and smoothies. But there are also those who use it as a spice to add flavor to dishes.