Sicily, Leonforte Igp peach conquers the US in candied and syrup versions
The Leonforte peach - with 10% Protected Geographical Indication - will score a 30% increase in production in 2025 and is preparing to conquer the US market, in candied and syrup versions.
'Participation at Summer fancy food, together with the Sicilian region, has enabled us to initiate a dialogue with American buyers and to open up new marketing channels, after Germany and Spain,' says Domenico Di Stefano, president of the Protection Consortium.
In 2024, 540 tonnes of fruit were harvested; this year, production increased and - despite this - demand exceeded supply.
Intense yellow in colour, firm flesh, sweet and fragrant, the Leonforte peach is also suitable for the preparation of panettone, desserts and creative dishes.
It grows only in the 150 hectares of certified peach orchards between Leonforte, Agira, Assoro, Enna and Calascibetta: each tree produces about 50 kg of peaches and each fruit weighs about 200-250 grams.
