ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

18

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

Andalucía:a richly varied fruit andvegetable garden

The Autonomous Community of Andalusiaproduces a large proportion of Spain’s output offruit and vegetables, to the point that the province ofAlmería, for instance, has become synonymous withSpanish horticulture.

With its 87,268 sq m, Andalusia makes up17.3 % of Spanish territory. The region has a highly

18

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

lesw

ww

.fru

tas-

hort

aliz

as.c

omAn

dalu

cía

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

19

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

There are severalhorticultures inAndalusia. Coastalhorticulture,strawberrycropping, citrusfruit, peach andnectarine growing,asparagus, cutflowers, sub-tropical fruit and«valley»horticulture.

variegated climate and relief, which in turn give riseto a wide variety in farming patterns, andparticularly in fruit and vegetable growing. Thethree main categories of growing (citrus fruit, non-citrus fruit and vegetables) are well represented inAndalusia’s several horticulturas. These growingsub-categories include the coastal greenhouse,strawberry, citrus, peach and nectarine, asparagus,cut flowers, sub-tropical fruits and ‘valley’ growing.

The ‘coastal greenhouse’ embraces the areafrom Bajo Almanzora to Níjar and Adra. Fruit andvegetable greenhouse growing is also found inGranada province from Albuñol to Motril, and inMalaga province from Torrox to Rincón de laVictoria. Smaller areas are under greenhouse inCadiz and Huelva. The key crops under plastic aretomatoes, peppers, runner beans, melons and

19

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

lesw

ww

.fru

tas-

hort

aliz

as.c

omAn

dalu

cía

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

20

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

lesw

ww

.fru

tas-

hort

aliz

as.c

om

20

watermelons. The Motril producers export theworld’s finest cherry tomatoes throughout Europe.

Huelva is regarded as the world’s leadingstrawberry region (the number one exporter andsecond-largest producer after California). This is arelatively recent development which began as anexperiment forty years ago. The most widely grownvariety today is Camarosa, a Californian import.Other varieties, like Calgiant, Chiflón, Candonga,Ventana and Camino Real, were developed by theUniversity of California and are grown by specialistmarket gardens like Viveros California, Planasa,Viveros Huelva, and others.

Early ripening, quality, flavour and cost are thedecisive features of commercial strawberryproduction.

With 65,000 ha given over to citrus growingand output of 1,285,000 tonnes, Andalusia is thesecond-largest citrus region after Valencia. Lemonis grown in Malaga, while orange is grown inSeville, Malaga and Huelva. Huelva properties arevery high-tech, in line with their larger size andtheir owners’ entrepreneurial spirit. Citrus croppersuse a range of suitably bred varieties and integratedgrowing methods. Producers are now looking at thepossibility of applying for a Cítricos de Huelvaprotected quality mark.

Another leading regional crop is almond,grown on 172,000 ha. Almería and Granada are theleading producers.

Andalusia is also noted for its peaches andnectarines, white and green asparagus, sub-tropicalfruits, olives, vineyards and other outdoor cropsgrown in the irrigated land on the banks of the riverGuadalquivir, like carrot, onion and potato.

The Junta of Andalusia presently recognisesAndalusian products with assured quality in

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

lesAn

dalu

cía

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

21

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

lesw

ww

.fru

tas-

hort

aliz

as.c

om

21

production, preparation and environmentalperformance under its Calidad Certificada (‘certifiedquality’) label.

Calidad Certificada is a mark granted by theregional department of agriculture and fisheries. Itspurpose is to promote Andalusian farming andfishery products with certified distinctivequality through an ambitious profile-raisingproject which will help consumers identifythe relevant labels. The scheme covers 906products and 237 enterprises, and fruit andvegetable producers are well represented.

The Calidad Certificada label encompassesproducts under designations of origin, protectedgeographical indications, organic farmingcertificates, traditional speciality guaranteed andintegrated production, and products certified to theEN-45011 standard based on specificationsauthorised by the regional department of agricultureand fisheries. Thus the Calidad Certificada marklets consumers identify products of superior qualityendorsed by the regional government.

The protected names in the AutonomousCommunity of Andalusia include the protecteddesignation of origin (PDO) Chirimoya de la CostaTropical Granada-Málaga (custard apple) and thePDO Pasas de Málaga (raisins). Marks in thevegetable category include the specific designationEspárrago de Huetor-Tájar (asparagus), soon to bejoined by the specific designation Tomate de laCañada-Níjar in Almería province.

A group of Almería producers have createdtheir own quality mark in response to growingconsumer demand. The Guarantee Securitam labelcertifies fresh fruit and vegetables from theseproducers and certifies that they have been grownand handled to very strict standards of hygieneand food safety.

Huelva is regardedas the world’sleading strawberryregion. Earlyripening, quality,flavour and costare the decisivefeatures ofcommercialstrawberryproduction.

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

lesAn

dalu

cía

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

22

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

CASI’s Raftomato

continues toplease the

mostdemanding

palates

green. All these traits wouldnormally be reason enough not toput it on the market. But the Raf’s‘powers’ are on the inside, becauseit has a flavour and ‘sweetness’ thatare virtually impossible to find inany other tomato variety.

As against what one might assume,the Raf isn’t a new generationtomato; in fact, it’s the mosttraditional in Almería province, andhas been grown there for as long ascan be remembered.

Only a few farmers grow Raftomatoes, and most are clustered inthe levante almeriense area - LaCañada and Níjar - where the waterhas always had a high salt content.

The CASI cooperative has itsplantations in the areas of LaCañada, El Alquián and Campos deNíjar.

The Pata Negra tomatoAs consumers become increasinglydiscriminating in their tastes, certainspecial products gain a reputationand win a place on the most selecttables. This has been the case of thepata negra tomatoes of Almería, alsoknown as Raf or ‘furrowed’ tomatoes.Raf harvests have been on the rise inthe past few years.

The Raf tomato is one of the oldestand most traditional products of theVega de Almería agricultural district.Its distinctive features are anoutstanding flavour and a sweetnessthat’s impossible to find in othertomato varieties. The experts saythat a good Raf tomato can bring outall sorts of responses, but it willnever leave you indifferent.

The Raf tomato is an ‘old-style’tomato. It isn’t the roundest, or thebiggest, or the shapeliest, or themost productive, or the reddest, orthe longest-lasting. Raf tomatoes aregenerally small, deeply furrowed, ofirregular shape and an intense

CASI SCA ............................... 218

CASI’s Raf tomatoes availableonlineFrom December onward, CASI will beselling its famous tomatoes over itswebsite, www.rafdecasi.com. Thewebsite provides all the informationabout the product and lets you buytomatoes direct from the harvest; theywill reach you just 48 hours afterpicking, and won’t go through anymiddlemen. Online sales of CASI Raftomatoes will only be available in theproduction season, from late Novemberto mid-May.

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

23

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

24

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les RAF TOMATO... NOW ORGANIC

The Raf tomato is one of the oldest andmost traditional products of the Vega deAlmería agricultural district. Most Raftomatoes are grown in the fields of Níjar.It’s a very high-quality product: itsdistinctive features are an outstandingflavour and a sweetness that’simpossible to find in other tomatovarieties.

Hortícola Pimar c.b. is a company basedin Níjar, Spain’s second-largest localdistrict, which borders on Cabo de GataNatural Park and specialises in growingRaf tomatoes.

Raf is a tomato variety whoseunprepossessing outward appearance issometimes deceptive and belies itsdelicious, unbeatable flavour. Rathersmall - only slightly larger than vinetomato - it’s deeply grooved, brightgreen on top and red on the bottom.

Tomatoes are a healthy food that providea wealth of vitamins and minerals. Someresearch studies have shown that Raftomatoes are far higher in vitamin Cthan orange juice.

In addition, tomatoes have exceptionalantioxidant properties. They containlycopene, which, together with othercompounds, reduces cancer risk, amongother benefits.

When tomato is paired with salty food,the distinctive tomato flavour andsweetness is brought out strongly. Thinslices of tomato, with origins in theAmericas, explode with savour in themouth, giving a powerful dose of thefreshness of the Andalusian orchard.

That’s why some slices of Raf tomato ona plate with fine virgin olive oil and asprinkle of salt are an exquisite delicacyin their own right.

These tomatoes - also known as patanegra - are planted in September. Thefirst tomatoes of the season are pickedin late December, and the last in lateMay. The last tomatoes taken from theplant - small but especially flavoursome- are wonderful for salad. Carefullyselected Raf tomatoes are picked green,because they are already a ripe redwhen cut open.

From now on, Hortícola Pimar alsomarkets organic Raf tomatoes ofoutstanding quality. Pimar is one of thepioneering firms in the organic tomatofield, now increasingly valued byconsumers.

Pimar also makes its own virgin oliveoil. Virgin olive oil is the only vegetableoil that can be eaten raw, without needof refining or modification, and sokeeps all its vitamins, essential fattyacids and other dietary benefits. Virginolive oil is the ideal ingredient to bringout the flavour of the delicious Raftomato.

HORTICOLA PIMAR C.B. ............. 220

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

25

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

26

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

MONTOSA is the past, the presentand the future in the production andworldwide export of avocados.

Since 2001, Montosa has increasedits output by 93.31% to 20,000 tonneslast year, and is now the undisputed leaderin its sector.

Its leadership in the avocado marketenables Montosa to promote awarenessof the avocado and its surroundingnutrition culture, implement innovativegrowth strategies like its present minimalprocessing projects, and encourageconsumption within this product category.

Montosa contributes added value tothe fruit from the tree to the table. Theymeticulously pamper their avocados at thegrowing stage, through to careful picking,exhaustive cleaning and professionalpacking with their own distinctive style.All this gives the product added value thatsets it apart from the competition.

Montosa’s control of the value chainthroughout the whole distribution channelmakes for full traceability from the fieldto the table. The supplied product offersthe highest nutritional standards, and

comes from plantations cultivatedby certified best agriculturalpractices.

Montosa fruit:a shot of vitaminsfor your body

Avocados are richin vitamin E (anantioxidant) and helpreduce cholesterolthanks to their oleic

acid.The oleic acid in

avocado is good for your bloodvessels and heart; it raises so-called

‘good cholesterol’ (HDL-C) and helpsreduce the risk of heart disease.

Montosafruit: Healthy

fruit for ahealthy bodyAn

dalu

cía

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

27

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

FRUTAS MONTOSA .................... 219

Vitamin valueBenefits of the vitamins inavocado

VITAMIN A 85 mg per 100 gr

Vitamin A is a powerful antagonist of harmfulfree radicals, and is necessary to maintaininghealthy eyes, skin and mucous membranes;it also boosts the immune system.

VITAMIN D 10 mg per 100 gr

Vitamin D aids calcium and phosphorusabsorption in the intestine and thus helpsthe formation of bones and teeth.

VITAMIN E 3 mg per 100 gr

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and anessential nutrient for the human body.It delays the signs of aging, prevents arteriesfrom becoming obstructed, and helpsprevent heart disease.

VITAMIN K 8 mg per 100 gr

Aids blood clotting.Helps bone metabolism.

VITAMIN B1 0.11 mg per 100 gr

Essential to the nervous and musculoskeletalsystems.

VITAMIN B2 0.20 mg per 100 gr

Provides energy to the inside of cells.Maintains healthy skin, nails and hair.

VITAMIN B6 0.45 mg per 100 gr

Helps you produce antibodies to support theimmune system.

VITAMIN B3 1.60 mg per 100 gr

Essential to obtaining energy.Necessary to brain function.

PANTOTHENIC ACID 1 mg per 100 gr

Necessary to assimilate the carbohydrates,protein and fats needed for cell life.

BIOTIN 10 mg per 100 gr

Important to carbohydrate, protein and fatmetabolism. Catalyses carbon dioxide fixing.

FOLIC ACID 32 mg per 100 gr

A B-complex vitamin that prevents birthdefects in the brain and spinal cord.

VITAMIN C 14 mg per 100 gr

A powerful protection against viruses.Vitamin C supports the immune system.

Tips on eating avocadosTo peel an avocado with ease, roll itaround in your hands for a fewseconds and the peel will come off thepulp more readily.

StorageSprinkle some drops of lemon juiceon the pulp after cutting to stop itfrom darkening.

Certification typeEurepgap, Tesco Nature’s choice,UNE-EN-ISO 9001:2000, APPLUS,BRC (in progress),IFS (in progress)

Packing typeFlow-Pack, nets, bulk boxes (4, 8, 10and 12 kg) and honeycomb packs

AvailableAll year

Frutas Montosa:The avocado market

leaders

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

28

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

CUSTARD APPLE

«Deliciousness itself» was how MarkTwain described the exotic chirimoya, orcustard apple, grown in the coastalvalleys south of the Sierra Nevada.

The flavour of the custard apple iscompletely its own and quite unlike anyother fruit. Because the custard appleneeds such a specific sub-tropicalclimate, it is only grown in the Motril-Almuñecar area and, with barely 2,500hectares of the fruit under cultivation,Spain is the world’s leading chirimoyagrower.

The difficulty of growing custard applesalso explains the wide differences inquality you can find on the market.

A sweet flavour with just a hint of acidicsharpness, a small number of stones, agreen skin and proper ripeness areachieved only through careful growing,well-judged picking and meticuloushandling.

So, more than any other fruit, thecustard apple needs dedication, know-how and delicate care. Our chirimoyasunder the La Palma label are theoutcome of those three factors.

Custard apples are a really special treatif you like sweet, delicate, flavoursome,exotic, cheerful fruit. What’s more,they’re good for you.

Available:October to MayCertification type:ISO 9001/ BRC/EUREP GAPPacking type:4 to 12 fruits to a 4 kg boxSource:Motril/Vélez Benaudalla

CHERRY TOMATO

The present varieties of cherry tomatoesare directly descended from the originaltomato plants found by theconquistadors in the Americas.

The province of Granada is the world’sleading cherry tomato producer; it’s herethat an innovation has become atradition in the space of just twentyyears.

The La Palma cooperative pioneered thecherry tomato, and is the world’s largestproducer. Its success rests on selectingand developing the best and mostflavoursome varieties at the La Palmaresearch facility.

Today, besides its traditional cherrytomatoes, La Palma grows thedeliciously sweet cherry teardroptomato, the aromatic cherry vine tomato,the tasty yellow cherry tomato and thestrikingly new strawberry cherry tomato.

Available:All yearCertification type:ISO 9001/ BRC/EUREP GAPPacking type:250 g and 500 g jars,snack bags, etc.Source:Granada province

CARCHUNA LA PALMA, SCA ......... 218

www.lapalmacoop.com

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

29

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

30

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

READY-TO-EAT VEGETABLESAND SALADS

The Primaflor Group comprises threefruit and vegetable producers, a packingplant and a ready-made salad facility.The Group has produced fruit andvegetables under the Prima and Sol dePulpí labels for 40 years.

Primaflor vegetables are available inshops under 45 different productreferences, and come from 95 propertiesin Murcia and Almería provinces.Primaflor is one of the leading suppliersto modern hotel, restaurant and cateringestablishments. Greengrocers’ shopshave Rincón de Prima cold storage unitscontaining peeled garlic, both wholeand sliced, lettuce hearts and babylettuces, Batavia lettuces, escarolelettuces, rocket, green and red lollo andoak-leaf lettuces, frisée escaroles,lamb’s lettuce, salad radishes, celery,wonderful cherry tomatoes on the vine,and more.

The company also offers specialproducts like kai choi and pak choi, andbags of ready-washed and cut salads ofspinach leaves, chard, lettuce andBatavia lettuce.

Prima and Babyfresh brand saladsinclude specialties like Baby Leaf bags,containing a mix of deliciously tendervegetable shoots.

Primaflor is the Spanish market leaderin many of its product ranges.

GRUPO PRIMAFLOR ................... 220

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

31

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

32

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les AVOCADO

Trops, a leading producer anddistributor of avocados and othersubtropical fruits, brings the tastiestvarieties to your greengrocer’s withguaranteed quality the year round.

This exotic, mild-flavoured, pulpy fruit,which originated in Central America,has great health properties in the formof mono-unsaturated fats, minerals likepotassium, iron and phosphorus, andantioxidants.

Avocado has many culinary uses andgoes well with all kinds of dishes.Avocado is used to make guacamole,salsas, baticate (an avocado shake),tacos and wonderful salads. It’s also anexquisite delicacy in its own right, justspread with butter or dressed with oiland lemon.

Avocados are easy to eat: just cut thefruit lengthwise till the knife hits thestone, turn the fruit so the blade slicesall round the stone, and then open thefruit into two halves.

The oleic acid in avocados is good foryour health and brings down bloodcholesterol. Avocado is a verywholesome and easily digested food,and is recommended for growingchildren, convalescents and people withstomach trouble.

Available:All year

MANGO

Flavoursome, fleshy and refreshing...Mango, originally an Asian fruit, isextremely sweet and aromatic and veryeasy to eat.

Mango helps prevent disease bystrengthening your immune system.

It’s very rich in carbohydrates, mineralslike magnesium and vitamins A and E.Its high antioxidant content also makesit a healthy option for all ages. VitaminsA and C help combat heart disease andeven cancer. The high fibre content ofmango gives it laxative and detoxifyingproperties.

You can enjoy mango just as it is, oruse it to give your dishes a tasty andcolourful touch: it goes very well withfish, ham, meat and more. Mango isalso a great choice of ingredient forsalads, fruit salads and other desserts.

When buying a mango, choose one witha good, well-rounded smell. Tropsworks hard to bring you the mostdelicious and aromatic mangoes on themarket.

Available:September to November

TROPS ................................... 221

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

33

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

34

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les LYCHEE

Lychee is a small, unusual fruit of Asianorigin. Its white pulp is very sweet andjuicy and has a surprising texture.

Lychee brings you a wealth of vitamins(mainly vitamin C) and minerals andsupports your metabolism. Lychees aregenerally eaten raw as fresh fruit,although they are also used in cookingas an ingredient in enticing meat andfish courses.

September to October is the best seasonfor buying fresh lychees in the shops,though you can also find it as dried ortinned fruit the year round. Trops is theleading Spanish producer of lychees,and has both a conventional and anorganic farming line. Trops’s servicequality strategy is based on added valuefor both customers and growers.

To eat a lychee, just split it in half andremove the stone. It’s very easy to peel,and is a great choice of fruit for all ages.

Available:September-October

Trops, the leading producer anddistributor of quality sub-tropicalfruit www.trops.es

TROPS ................................... 221

MULTI-LEAF LETTUCES

Multi Leaf lettuces have many tenderyoung leaves to make deliciously freshsalads. These ready-to-eat lettuces havegreat colour, texture, volume andflavour. All they need is a dressing, andthey become a wonderful salad you canserve straight away.

Far fewer leaves go to waste and wesave a lot of time.

One of the major difficulties withprocessed lettuce is that sliced leavessoon go brown through oxidation. Seedcompanies have therefore selectedoxidation-resistant varieties to minimisethe problem. These varieties are longer-life and can undergo washing andslicing, thus saving time forhouseholds, caterers, restaurants andthe food industry.

All these new lettuce varieties aresmaller and have more leaves thanconventional lettuce, and are especiallyeasy to prepare.

Rijk Zwaan produces these varietiesunder the Salanova® brand, whichguarantees freshness and flavour.Salanova® lettuces have a highlyattractive appearance and stay firm andfresh if stored correctly.

RIJK ZWAAN IBÉRICA, SA ........... 221

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

35

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

36

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les ‘CASTIL’ ITALIAN PEPPERS

Castell de Ferro is a village on the coastof Granada province. The warm climateand modern technology make it an idealsite for growing all kinds of fruit andvegetables all year round.

Thanks to its meticulous selectionprocesses and comprehensive service,the growers’ cooperative El Grupo SCAis a market leader that provides thehighest standard of quality in all itsproducts, at the best price.

One of its key products is the Italianpepper, which is grown in the Castell deFerro area from January to July.

These Italian peppers are long andpointed, and green in colour. Theirsweet flesh is ideal for frying, but theycan also be eaten raw, stewed or roast,and they make an excellent garnish for awide range of dishes.

Peppers are high in fibre and packedwith vitamin C. 100 g of peppersprovides about 100% of therecommended daily intake of 60 mg ofvitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerfulantioxidant which protects againstcancer and viruses.

Available:January to JulyCertification type:UNE-EN ISO 2000, BRC

‘CASTIL’ CHERRY TOMATO

El Grupo SCA harvests, packs anddistributes its cherry tomatoes to theutmost standard of care and hygiene tomake sure they reach consumers withall their properties intact.

Cherry tomato is a select variety thatplays a key role in the daily diet and isavailable the year round. Cherrytomatoes are a versatile product for awide variety of culinary uses.

This small red fruit has a mild, sweetand very pleasant taste. Its seeds areedible and the pulp is very juicy.

The excellent nutritional profile oftomatoes is a balanced blend ofantioxidants (vitamin C, carotenoids andflavonoids), minerals and fibre. They arehigh in folic acid and low in fats. Inparticular, tomatoes are the mostimportant dietary source of lycopene,which acts as a powerful antioxidant.

Tomatoes are a healthy natural productwhose excellent properties meet theneeds and tastes of any consumer.

Available:All yearCertification type:UNE-EN ISO 2000, BRC,UNE 155.000

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

37

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les‘CASTIL’ DUTCH CUCUMBER

Cucumbers probably originated in Indiaand North Africa, but are now grown allacross the Mediterranean basin, theCanary Islands and the Netherlands.

The cucumbers sold by El Grupo SCAunder the ‘Castil’ brand are of the‘Dutch’ or ‘Almería’ variety, one of themost delicious on the market. Theselong and straight cucumbers have asmooth green skin and a firm flesh ofextraordinarily pleasant flavour.

Cucumbers contain no fats orcholesterol and are low in calories.Cucumbers contain cancer-fightingphytochemicals called phytosterols andterpenes.

Cucumbers also contain some vitaminC. 100 g of cucumber provides about10% of the recommended daily intake of60 mg of vitamin C. Vitamin C mayprotect against various kinds of cancerand strengthens the immune system.

Cucumber is eaten raw in salads andsandwiches and is available the yearround.

Available:October to JuneCertification type:UNE-EN ISO 2000, BRC,UNE 155.000

‘XAENA’ RUNNER BEAN

Runner beans are a legume thatoriginated in Central and SouthAmerica; they were introduced to Europein the sixteenth century.

This crop is now available the yearround. Runner beans are sold fresh andput to a wide variety of culinary uses.

Runner beans contain no fats,cholesterol or sodium and are low incalories. They are a good source ofcarotenoids, provitamin A, vitamic C,fibre, potassium, folate and certainphytochemicals.

Runner beans are digestive, diuretic anddetoxifying.

The special climate of Castell de Ferromeans that the runner beans grown inthe area are of the highest quality.

The ‘Xaena’ brand is a guarantee ofquality.

Available:October to JuneCertification type:UNE-EN ISO 2000, BRC

EL GRUPO S.C.A ....................... 219

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

38

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

SYNGENTA SEEDS, SA ................ 221

Kumato® Tomato, unique flavour and colorKumato® is a registered trade mark

of the Syngenta Group

NEW KUMATO® TOMATO

Kumato® tomato is the new tomatovariety marketed by Syngenta Seeds.Kumato(r) has a unique appearance andexquisite taste. It is a wholly naturalproduct and surprisingly juicy.

You will discover something specialwhen you try this unforgettable fruit. Itis a unique, innovative, attractive tomatothat brings imagination and creativity toyour table. A very juicy, sweet, intenselyflavoured fruit, Kumato® has anattractive and distinctive colour thatmakes it immediately recognisable inthe market.

Kumato® is ideal for gourmets andhighly appreciated by children for itsintense flavour in original salads. It isavailable in specialist gourmet shopsand the major Spanish and Europeansupermarkets.

Tomato is one of the world’s mostwidely used food products. It serves asthe basis for delicious and refreshingcuisine and is highly versatile forcombining with a wide range of foods.

‘CASTIL’ WATERMELON

El Grupo SCA grows its produce inGranada province, whose sub-tropicalclimate is unique in Europe.

All the fruit and vegetables sold by ElGrupo SCA are free of residues andpass strict quality controls to guaranteefreshness and outstanding.

Through its ‘Castil’ and ‘Xaena’ brands -recognised in Spain and abroad for theirquality and prestige - El Grupo SCAdistributes Dutch cucumbers, cherrytomatoes, Italian peppers, runner beansand watermelons.

The distinctive features of ‘Castil’watermelons are its wonderful flavourand colour, and the use of naturalpollination in the cultivation process.

Watermelon is a highly refreshing anddiuretic fruit, because it is 92% water -recommended for people on weight-lossdiets.

Watermelon contains vitamins A, C, B1and B2, and the minerals potassium,sodium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus,sulphur and chlorine. Watermelon seedsare high in zinc, and their antiprostaticeffect can be released by chewing them.

‘Castil’ watermenlons have a very thick,hard shell of smooth green skin. The redpulp is porous and very juicy in texture,with an extremely sweet taste.

Available:May to JulyCertification type:UNE-EN ISO 2000, BRC,UNE 155.000

EL GRUPO S.C.A ....................... 219

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

39

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

Tomates de laCañada-Níjar:health-packed

tomatoes

The four tomato varieties underthe Tomate La Cañada-Níjar specificdesignation are ‘furrowed’, cherry,‘oblong’ and ‘smooth round’, and allfour achieve higher concentrations offlavour-related compounds - bothsweet and acidic - which make themdistinct from tomatoes fromelsewhere.

All the important factors forgrowing high-quality tomatoes arepresent in the La Cañada-Níjardistrict, and thus ensure a very fineflavour in response to consumers’increasing demand for exceptionalstandards.

Tomates de La Cañada-Níjartomatoes have a flavour, aroma, colourand appearance that sets them apartfrom tomatoes grown in other regions.

Their balanced and exceptionalflavour is owed to a higher organicsugar and acid content than that foundin other tomatoes. They are high inpotassium, phosphorus and calciumand a good source of vitamin C andfolic acid. Their rich lycopene contentmakes them extremely healthy.

The Tomates de La Cañada-Níjarspecific designation was created by theproducer organisation Asociación delTomate La Cañada-Níjar to set thetomatoes grown in the area apart fromcrops from elsewhere. The growingarea protected under the Tomates deLa Cañada-Níjar specific designationcomprises Almería, Huercal deAlmería, Níjar, Pechina and Viator.

Several studies conducted by theCoexphal laboratory show that thesetomatoes offer outstandingorganoleptic properties. This is chieflydue to the physical-chemical featuresof the soil, the temperature and thehours of sunlight in the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, the irrigation waterused to grow Tomate La Cañada-Níjar,and the expertise of the local growers,who have cultivated these tomatoes bytraditional handcraft methods for manyyears.

D.E.TOMATE LA CAÑADA-NÍJAR......218

CASUR S.C.A.S.A.T. COSTA DE NÍJAR

VEGACAÑADA S.A.AGROPONIENTE-NÍJAR S.A.

AGRUPALMERÍA S.A.

A tomato with an edge

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

40

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

Intensive agriculture underplastic is the leading source of wealthin Vícar and the mainstay of itseconomy.

About 1,878 hectares in Vícar’smunicipal district are ‘greenhoused’,and produce a variety of fruit andvegetables, including tomatoes,peppers, cucumbers, courgettes,aubergines, runner beans, watermelonsand melons.

Vícar,greenhouses

and trade

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

40

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

lesAn

dalu

cía

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

41

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

www.vicar.es

There are many auxiliary busi-nesses linked to the fruit and vegetablesector in Vícar. The town showcasesthe different ways fruit and vegetablesare placed on the market: the traditionalalhóndiga markets, on one hand, andcooperatives, limited companies andother forms of corporation on the other.All these models make it possible forVícar’s produce to supply Spanish andinternational markets.

Farms are constantly improved,modernised and invested in, and thedistribution firms strive to keep the pro-duce at optimum standards of qualityand in tune with consumer taste.

The municipality of Vícarstretches from the uppermost part of thePoniente area of Almería province downto the coast. The fruit and vegetablesgrown in Vícar’s greenhouses have thebenefit of a very mild climate.

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

41

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

lesAn

dalu

cía

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

42

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

PDOChirimoya

de la CostaTropical de

Granada-Málaga

Custard apples (cherimoyas) under theprotected designation of originChirimoya de la Costa Tropical Granada-Málaga have a pulpy, creamy, juicy andsugary flesh, a whitish colour, a verydelicately acidic flavour, and are highlydigestive. Custard apple is a speciallyaromatic and sweet fruit.

The skin is at first pale green anddarkens slightly when ripe. Another signof ripeness is that it has a slight giveunder the gentle pressure of a finger -this indicates the right time for eating it.The outer surface is a network of veryslight depressions.

This exotic fruit is grown on the «CostaTropical» of Granada and Malagaprovinces, sheltered between thefoothills of the Cordillera Penibética andthe Mediterranean Sea in a subtropicalmicroclimate that is unique in Europe.

The local districts that grow custardapples under the protected designationof origin are, in Granada, Motril, Vélezde Benaudalla, Los Guájares, Molvizar,Ítrabo, Salobreña, Otívar, Lentejí, Jeteand Almuñécar, and, in Malaga, Nerja,Frigiliana, Torrox, Algarrobo and VélezMálaga.

In nutritional terms, custard apple is veryhealthy as well as delicious.

Its powerful enzymes mean it is easilydigested.

Custard apples are flavoursome, fleshy,energy-packed and nutritious, and highin organic sugars and minerals. They arefibre-rich, help calcify bones and teeth

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

43

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

CHIRIMOYA COSTA TROPICALDE GRANADA-MÁLAGA, D.O.P. ..... 219

and combat anxiety; they are ideal forgrowing children.

Custard apples don’t need anythingadded to them to make a scrumptiouspudding - you can eat them fresh, just asthey are. They make an excellent snackbetween meals, and a wonderfulbreakfast or tea.

Custard apples are also great forcooking. Why not try a custard appletart? You need 2 custard apples, 2 eggs,1 cup of cream, 1 cup of sugar andsponge cake. Scoop the flesh out of thecustard apples and remove the stones.Squeeze over some lemon. Beat the eggstogether with the sugar and half thecream.

Then lay down the layers of the cake: firstthe sponge cake, soaked in a little syrup www.crchirimoya.org

Anda

lucí

a

and rum, then the custard apple pulp,then the flavoured cream. Then top thecake with sugar. Bake the cake in theoven at a medium heat until it sets.Enjoy!

As Mark Twain said, custard appleis «deliciousness itself».

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

44

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

Know-how and flavour are theessence of Roquetas de Mar. Its fruitand vegetable farming is a benchmarkfor advanced agriculture which growsthe natural way and looks after theenvironment. And its tourist attractions- including the finest beaches on theCosta de Almería - are an added bonusto its high-quality gastronomy.

Roquetas de Mar is one ofSpain’s emerging towns, whose strongrise is driven by tourism and agriculture,and by the hard work of the peoplewho live there, who have earned awell-deserved and longstandingreputation for effort and perseverance.

With 3,000 hectares of cropsunder plastic, intensive agriculturehas changed life in Roquetas de Mar.By creating these veritablemicroclimates of year-round warmtemperatures, Roquetas has becomeone of Spain’s leading agriculturalproducers and exporters. Its keyproducts are tomatoes, peppers,cucumbers, watermelons, melons andmarrows, all of which are sold on themost demanding markets worldwide.

Roquetasde Mar,

a holidayheaven witha fertile fruit

and vegetablegarden

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

45

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

www.aytoroquetas.org

Everyone is aware of the greateffort put in by the local government’sagriculture department for the benefitof the area’s growers. The local councilworks tirelessly to boost farming, oneof the district’s main sources of wealth,because they know the sector needssupport, particularly in uncertain ti-mes like the present.

All these factors have made a near-deserted stretch of coastline into agreen heaven of productivity and quality.

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

46

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

The wildorigins of

Huétor-TájarasparagusAn

dalu

cía

The native asparagus of Huétor-Tájar, commonly known in the area as‘green-purple’ asparagus, is a member ofthe green asparagus group, and closelyrelated to some wild species of theAsparagus genus, including Asparagusmaritimus, Asparagus albus, Asparagusacutifolius, Asparagus aphylus, andothers. These species are simply part ofthe wild flora of Mediterranean regionslike Andalusia, and are not cultivated ascrops. Wild green asparaguses differsfrom cultivated green and white asparagusin that they are slimmer, have barbs or

spurs under their scales, thestems are darker (bronze andpurple), their taste is morebitter, they smell stronger andthe stem is flexible and fleshy.Even in classical times, Cato

remarked on how someepicureans preferred wildspecies of asparagus fortheir slight bitterness.

The Huétor-Tájar asparagus

was originally a wildspecies that grew in theriverside woodland onthe river Genil where itran through Huétor-Tájar. The seeds werecollected in the earlytwentieth century for

cultivation in the fertilefields of the Vega Baja of

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

47

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

the Genil river in Granada province. Theasparagus was grown in small familygardens of the area, for the households’own consumption or for sale locally.

The research conducted in recentyears by the Consejo Regulador(inspection body) of the protectedgeographical indication Espárrago deHuétor-Tájar, in partnership with theUniversity of Cordoba, has shown that theHuétor-Tájar asparagus is a cross betweenAsparagus officinalis and Asparagusmaritimus, which makes it similar tovarious wild green asparagus speciestypical of the Mediterranean region.

Distinctive features of Huétor-Tájar asparagus

The distinctive features of theHuétor-Tájar native as against other greenasparagus species include its chemicalcomposition, which make it a medicinalvegetable. It contains sapogenins, aglucosteroid credited with the diureticproperties of the plant, the bittersweettaste, and, according to recent researchin the United States, anti-tumoural action.The concentration of sapogenins inHuétor-Tájar asparagus is three timeshigher than in other asparagus species.Other standout compounds includepolyphenol antioxidants, of which themost significant is rutin or vitamin P.Again, Huétor-Tájar has three times morerutin than other green asparaguses, henceits purple colour. Finally, Huétor-Tájar

asparagus is slimmer than other greenasparagus species, making for fleshierand more tender spears.

Protection of the Espárragode Huétor-Tájar designation

Huétor-Tájar asparagus hasbeen protected by a specific qualitydesignation since 22 October 1996,when the agriculture and fisheriesdepartment of the Junta of Andalusiaintroduced the regulations and createdthe inspection body for the protectedname. The Spanish Ministry ofAgriculture, Fisheries and Foodratified the protected name on 18 April1997. On 15 March 2000, theEuropean Commission, underRegulation (EC) No 547/2000 of 14March 2000, registered Huétor-Tájarasparagus as a protected geographicalindication throughout the entireEuropean Union.

ESPÁRRAGODE HUÉTOR-TÁJAR, IGP ............. 219

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

48

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

WHAT’S A PLUOT? IT LOOKS LIKE APLUM, BUT...

This fruit could be mistaken for a plum,but it’s a lot more than that.

A pluot is a cross between a plum andan apricot, so it has features of both.The pluot is bred as a natural hybrid,and is not genetically modified.

It is easily recognised by its ROYALpluot label, which is a guarantee ofquality. Royal is one of the fewEuropean countries to grow pluots.

The outside of a pluot is very similar toa plum’s: round, with a smooth, shinyskin. But its sweet taste, juicy, crisppulp, fine skin and mixture of coloursmakes it distinctive and unlike otherfruit.

Pluots are also very nutritious, beingrich in vitamins A and C, potassium andfibre.

The Brontosaurus Egg(r) variety is ayellowish-purple pluot with greenstipples reminiscent of a dinosaur egg.Royal has aimed this variety at children.Pluots are available from late July toSeptember.

Whenever you see the name ‘pluot’ on alabel or crate of fruit you’ll know they’renot just plums, they’re a lot more thanthat!

DELICIOUS YELLOW PEACHES

The yellow peach, also known in Spainas the pavía, is one of the most widelyconsumed peaches on the Spanishmarket. It is the first to be harvested -from 15 to 20 May - and is therefore theonly peach available at that time. Royalhas developed a new variety of yellowpeach and started to market it in 2005,with a volume of 200 tonnes. The peachproved highly popular, so Royal plans toincrease production in upcoming years.

This (already famous) peach variety -which seems to imitate an ordinaryyellow peach - is exclusive for its brightyellow colour, the consistency of itsskin and its wonderful flavour, and alsobecause it’s one of the earliest peacheson the market.

Don’t miss it - whenever you see ayellow peach with a Royal label, you’llknow it’s a good buy.

Yellow pulp: Golden stamp

White pulp: Silver stamp

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

49

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

ROYAL, SAT ............................ 221

WONDERFUL NECTARINES

Royal offers you the widest range ofwhite- and yellow-pulp nectarines, withextra sweet flavours. Royal launchesnew varieties every year, thanks to itsresearch and development programmes.The company’s constant innovationbrings you new, improved flavours andqualities.

Nectarines are completely smooth, havea reddish skin and very sweet, tenderflesh. Nutritionally, they are very similarto peach, but richer in vitamin A.Nectarine is one of the pulpy fruits withthe highest vitamin B3 content. VitaminB3 supports nutrient metabolism andaids the breakdown of cholesterol, thushelping reduce blood cholesterol.

White-flesh nectarines are increasinglysought-after in the Spanish market: theyare juicy and very sugary and aromatic.Nectarines are an ideal fruit for springand summer.

An easy way to tell white-fleshnectarines from yellow-flesh nectarinesis to look at the quality label.

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

50

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

Agrupaejido,a lot more

than acompany

group

The history of Agrupaejido has runparallel to the history of intensiveagriculture in Almería province. In 1979,when Almería was rapidly developing itsagriculture, a group of horticultureentrepreneurs joined forces to createAgrupaejido, S.A. From then on, thecompany has grown unstoppably. By1982, Agrupaejido operated fruit andvegetable auction centres and startedexporting to offer its growers a morecomprehensive service.

A solid realityToday, Agrupaejido is a large busi-

ness group with 46,000 sq m of facilitiesfor fruit and vegetable sales, spread over8 centres in Almería. The group also holdsinterests in a wide range of companies -some of them are wholly owned or underthe group’s control, while others are heldas joint ventures in which Agrupaejidoplays an active management role. The

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

51

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

group produces and sells vegetables inMexico (Almerimex), and is also involvedin fertilisers, seawater desalination,winemaking, television and radio,property, and other sectors.

Natural leadersAgrupaejido is a leading company

in its field; it is the largest group of itskind in Andalusia, and one of the six-largest fruit and vegetable businesses inSpain. It is also Spain’s largest marketerof peppers. Headed by a young but expertand highly effective team, Agrupaejidobeats its own records every year.

Total qualityAgrupaejido is a leading company

by sales volume, but its management’spriority is quality. That’s why the grouphas more than 1,000 hectares underEurepgap controls, and has passed everysingle audit so far. In addition,

Agrupaejido runs regular trainingcourses for its 3,500 grower partnersand 1,500 employees, and has ateam of 15 to 20 specialists whoadvise our producers. Agrupaejido’sproduct labels - Almery, Cehorpa,Fashion, Frual, K5, Leal and Pandal- are therefore a byword for «totalquality», which is the main concernof everyone working at Agrupaejido.

AGRUPAEJIDO ......................... 218An

dalu

cía

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

52

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

The natural and multi-colouredagriculture of El Ejido

The crop fields of El Ejido are in thesouth of Almería province, Spain, on theplains that stretch to the MediterraneanSea from the southern face of the Sierrade Gádor range. The local countryside hasa stable climate, with an annual averagediurnal temperature of 27ºC in thesummer and 15ºC in the winter, an avera-ge 3,060 hours of sunlight a year, and anatmosphere blown crisp and clean byfrequent gentle breezes.

In El Ejido, over 50% of the workingpopulation is directly involved inagriculture (50.5%), which takes up14,000 ha of top-quality fruit andvegetable greenhouse, where the climateis usually wholly natural, unheated orusing only anti-frost heating.

Every year, El Ejido growers produ-ce over 1,200,000 tons of quality fruit andvegetables. The greenhouses support21,000 direct jobs, comprising familylabour in 44% of properties, and part-family, part-employee labour in another44% of properties.

The local government’s concern toreinforce El Ejido’s agriculture has led itto sustain and advocate the quality of theproduce as a strategy to buttress its cropsagainst the competition of emergingeconomies enjoying special treaties withthe European Union. One example of thisconcern was the creation - in partnership

www.elejido.org

with the University of Almería - of CUAM,the university municipal analysis centre,in 1993. The CUAM laboratory has beenaccredited to the highest standards byENAC since 1998. It provides growers, thefood chain and consumers with strictguarantees of quality and safety. Inaddition, 100% of the local growers areadvised by highly qualified universityexperts on all aspects of crop growing andfarm management. We can therefore saythat in El Ejido «We Grow Quality Safely».El Ejido’s fruit and vegetables areconsumed in the most demandingmarkets of Europe and North America, andare sought after for their wonderful flavour,due to the splendid sunlight our landenjoys all the year round.

El Ejido crop farming is not astereotypical primary sector activity,therefore, but a sophisticated system thatdraws on the best of nature and traditionalcraft to produce top quality fruit andvegetables aimed at the world’s mostdemanding markets, all thanks to the day-to-day work of over 31,000 people fromover 100 countries from around theplanet. That’s why, in addition to oursunny climate and the beautiful colour andhigh quality of our fruit and vegetables,ornamental plants and cut flowers, at ElEjido we are proud to say we are «multi-coloured».

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

53

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

54

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les

REYES GUTIÉRREZ .................... 221

AVOCADOS FROM VÉLEZ MÁLAGA

Avocado is a fruit that improves qualityof life, according to the 2nd Mexicanand Latin American Avocado Congressheld in 2005 at Michoacán. Avocadocontains most of the elements of ahealthy diet:

■ Ten vitamins, particularly vitamin E,which helps prevent prostate cancer.

■ Fatty acids - both mono- andpolyunsaturated - such as Omega 9,7, 6 and 3. Beta sitosterol preventscholesterol build-up and favoursheart health.

■ The essential aminoacids in avocadohelp protein synthesis and cellmetabolism.

■ Minerals: calcium, copper,phosphorus, iron, magnesium,manganese, potassium, selenium,sodium and zinc

■ Other healthy compounds: carotenes,lutein (responsible for the fruit’sgreen and yellow colour) andcarbohydrates, which are good for thestomach and protect the liver.

Avocado is delicious and contains awealth of nutritious, healthy elements:glucides, protides, lipids, vitamins andmineral salts. Cooks use avocado tomake exquisite dishes and sauces, thebest-known being the popular Mexicanguacamole.

The Reyes Gutiérrez company, based inVélez Málaga, sells its own avocadosmost of the year round, and distributesfruit grown in Mexico and CentralAmerica. Reyes Gutiérrez distributes the

Bacon, Hass, Pinkerton, Fuerte andRead varieties. Its own labels - Casado,Avofruit, Mesara and Kadoo - are highlyregarded internationally, and are a triedand tested quality guarantee inEuropean supermarkets and wholesalemarkets.

Anda

lucí

a

ww

w.f

ruta

s-ho

rtal

izas

.com

55

Guid

e of

the b

est

Fru

its an

d Ve

getab

les