Regional Institute of Wine and Oil

Sicilian almond, IRVO becomes a certifying body

IRVO will be the certifying body for the Sicilian Almond. The three-year agreement was signed in recent days and, from the now next harvest which takes place starting from the month of August, the Regional Institute of Wine and Oil will control the various steps. The agreement was stipulated between the regional body and A.Pro.Ma.S. (the Sicilian Almond Producers Association).

The IRVO, having been recognized by the Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policies as a Control and Certification Body for DO wines and for the control of Sicilian PGI wines as well as PGI Sicilia extra virgin olive oil, was deemed suitable by the association , chaired by Cateno Ferreri, to certify its production. “A reason for us – comments the general manager, Lucio Monte – of pride which attests to the recognition by the Sicilian agri-food world for the professional skills present within this institution”.

Moreover, this activity fits fully into the broader perspective that has emerged in recent years according to which the Institute of Wine and Oil would like to be entrusted with expertise regarding the entire Sicilian agri-food sector. “An important process is thus completed – these are the words of the extraordinary commissioner of IRVO, Antonino Di Giacomo Pepe – which adds extra value to the quality and value activity demonstrated by this body. Among other things, this structure is increasingly becoming a point of reference for the Sicilian production world, guaranteeing its excellence".

The process for identifying IRVO as the certification and control body for Sicilian Almonds began four years ago when A.Pro.Ma.S. has drawn up a production specification and registered a collective brand with the aim of representing and defending the excellence of the districts of Enna, Siracusa, Caltanissetta and Agrigento on the market. “The intervention of the IRVO – declares Ferreri – will provide security regarding the integrity and quality of the Sicilian Almond. Product which, according to university studies carried out, appears to be the best from a taste and nutritional point of view."

IRVO thus proceeded to prepare a Control Plan and a tariff. Its task will be to guarantee the traceability of the almond supply chain by carrying out checks by production year and notifying the controlled operators and the A.Pro.Ma.S. the results of the checks as well as all consequential measures including any corrective actions. IRVO will also issue certificates of conformity.