In Italy, a probe has been initiated regarding the Mafia’s influence over the tomato industry, following a claim from a TV personality that organized crime plays a significant role in this multi-million-pound sector.
Alessandro Di Pietro urged viewers of a popular food show to boycott the well-known Pachino brand tomatoes, leading Italians to feel alarmed.
These tomatoes, which have protected status in Italy and are primarily cultivated near Pachino in Sicily—the Mafia’s territory—are said by Di Pietro to be impacted by organized crime, which allegedly inflates production and distribution costs.
Annually, over 6,000 tons of Pachino tomatoes are harvested, with prices averaging around $4.80 per kilo, though they can reach as high as $7.50, generating business valued at over $27 million.
Cherry-shaped and known for their sweet flavor, consistent quality, and durability, these tomatoes also feature smooth and shiny skin. Italians primarily use them for pasta sauces and pizza toppings.
Di Pietro stated, ‘The Mafia controls the production of Pachino tomatoes, and they ought to be boycotted.’
His statements ignited fury within the Italian government, prompting ministers to demand a retraction.
Agriculture Minister Giancarlo Galan remarked, ‘What he said is completely unacceptable; such initiatives should originate from legitimate organizations dealing with organized crime.’
Environment Minister Stefania Prestigiacomo, who hails from Sicily, expressed, ‘RAI should issue an immediate retraction, as these absurd accusations only inflict damage.
‘It is unacceptable for such things to be stated by the public broadcaster regarding an industry involving over 5,000 producers who take pride in their excellence.’
During his show, Di Pietro informed viewers on the state broadcaster RAI about the dismantling of a Mafia-controlled fruit and vegetable wholesaler and distributor based in Fondi, south of Rome, last year.
He explained that Mafia clans manipulate the distribution of tomatoes to shops across Italy, causing consumers to pay as much as 11 times what growers receive, pocketing the difference in the process.
MP Fabio Granata noted, ‘I have requested that the parliamentary anti-Mafia commission look into the production and distribution of Pachino tomatoes in Italy.
‘I want to ascertain whether there is any confirmation of the allegations made in the TV program.’
In response, Italy’s agriculture union Confagricultura condemned the suggested boycott, releasing a statement: ‘Questioning the quality of Pachino tomatoes and advocating for a boycott is a grave mistake.
‘The Pachino is an emblem of Italian agriculture and is being unjustly vilified; such baseless claims tarnish the reputation of our products that have been cultivated through years of hard work.’
by Sasha Dubronitz
