Italian Olive Oil 2024: Production Down 32% Due to Drought

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The Impact of Climate Change on Italian Olive Oil Production

In 2024, Italian olive oil production is expected to decline by 32%. This significant drop is primarily due to extreme weather conditions and drought. Regions like Puglia and Sicily, known for their olive groves, have been severely affected. Record heat and insufficient rainfall have devastated these areas, leading to a concerning outlook for the industry. According to estimates presented at the G7 Agriculture meeting in Syracuse, total production will reach around 224 million kilograms. Consequently, Italy will fall to fifth place among global olive oil producers.

Moreover, the harvest in Sicily has started 15 to 20 days earlier than usual. This early start is a direct result of high temperatures accelerating the ripening of olives. In Puglia, which accounts for about one-third of Italy’s olive groves, the harvest has been nearly halved. The flowering and fruit-setting processes have been severely compromised, putting many trees under water stress. As a result, the future of Italian olive oil production looks increasingly uncertain.

Quality Over Quantity: The Resilience of Italian Olive Oil

Despite the drastic reduction in quantity, the quality of Italian olive oil remains exceptionally high. Approximately 400,000 farms across the country contribute to this quality. Italy continues to lead Europe with the highest number of extra virgin olive oils with designations of origin. This includes 43 Protected Designations of Origin (DOP) and 4 Protected Geographical Indications (IGP). Additionally, Italy boasts an invaluable heritage of 533 olive varieties.

David Granieri, Vice President of Coldiretti and President of Unaprol, emphasizes the importance of this quality. He notes that the demand for 100% Made in Italy extra virgin olive oil has actually increased. This trend reflects consumer appreciation for high-quality products. However, Granieri warns against viewing olive oil merely as a commodity. It is an essential component of the Mediterranean Diet and is often regarded as a true elixir of life, supported by numerous studies.

Challenges Ahead: Fraud and Water Management in Olive Oil Production

As olive oil prices rise and supply dwindles, the risk of fraud also increases. To combat this issue, Coldiretti and Unaprol are implementing several measures. One proposal includes lowering the maximum acidity level for extra virgin olive oil from 0.8% to 0.5%. Additionally, a new decree aims to enhance the traceability of olives purchased from traders. These steps are crucial for maintaining the integrity of Italian olive oil.

Furthermore, the future of Italian olive cultivation hinges on adapting to climate change. Coldiretti and Unaprol are advocating for accelerated implementation of water management plans. This includes the construction of reservoirs to ensure a more systematic approach to water usage. Without these measures, achieving stable and high-quality production will be challenging, especially in light of increasingly extreme weather events.

In conclusion, while the challenges facing Italian olive oil production are significant, the resilience of the industry and the commitment to quality offer hope for the future. The combination of high standards and innovative practices may help navigate the complexities of climate change and market demands.

media: WineMag – ® Riproduzione riservata

source: WineMag – Olio d’oliva italiano 2024: produzione giù del 32% per la siccità. Qualità salva