"The production of local lettuce, zucchini and cucumbers is in full swing. We are hoping to harvest the first local green ribbed tomatoes in a weeks time. Demand from general markets is currently increasing, while the volumes destined to the domestic retail chain have tripled," explains Michele Conti (in the photo), sales manager of Op Copla di Fondi (LT).

"The dro in temperatures of the past few days has had a positive effect, as the price of zucchini has almost doubled. The current quotation for light-colored zucchini with flowers is around €1.50-1.60/kg, while that of dark-colored ones without flowers is €1.30-1.40. Demand has also increased compared to a few weeks ago."

"The situation of green celery is not great, as average quotations are €0.40/kg. Celery in flowpacks also destined abroad has become available this year, though sales are slow." 

"What changed since Fondi was declared a red zone? Shifts are shorter in line with the working hours of the Fondi-MOF produce market and fewer operators are coming in." 

"We are complying with the provisions set out by the Government. The facility is closed, so it is safer and fewer people can access it. We take the temperature of operators every morning and of course everybody wears personal protection equipment and respects the safety distance of at least 1 meter."

"We are working hard to provide consumers with high-quality fresh Italian products. I would like to stress that the produce from the Fondi plain is virus-free and that, more in general, the virus does not spread via fresh produce. I would also like to ask consumers to eat Italian products."

"I truly hope this situation will end soon. I am deeply concerned for our producer members as well, as they are getting ready for the summer campaign and have made considerable investments."