MIAMI, FL - It was just a couple of weeks ago that we announced Fresh Del Monte Produce’s expanded partnership with the University of Granada. Further proving its commitment to innovation, the supplier has teamed up with Vellsam Materias Bioactivas to research how to maximize the use of its pineapple residues by way of biofertilizers. The partnership, operating under the name De l’Ora Bio, is announcing the inauguration of a biofertilizer plant in Kenya.
“Fresh Del Monte is committed to creating a circular economy and is taking active measures to repurpose and reuse its residues,” said Mohammad Abu-Ghazaleh, Fresh Del Monte’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We see this collaboration as a transformative turning point that has the potential to revolutionize how the agricultural industry farms. De l’Ora embodies our commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and pursuing boundaries of what is possible in agriculture.”
The new biofertilizer plant is situated close to Fresh Del Monte’s subsidiary in Kenya, Del Monte Kenya, and will use residues from the company’s pineapple cannery to create different types of biofertilizers for its use and the eventual sale to other growers in Kenya and East African countries.
A press release explained that biofertilizers are natural fertilizers that use microbes to help promote plant growth by increasing the supply of essential nutrients to the plants, improving the soil texture and yield of plants, and providing a more sustainable option to traditional fertilizers. Estimates show that the global biofertilizers market size will expand to around USD 9.14 billion by 2032, according to Precedence Research.
The new plant is currently running tests and will be fully operational in June. Del Monte Kenya is the single largest exporter in the country and already employs 6,500 Kenya workers directly. With the opening of this plant, the company can further support the local economy and work toward growing its footprint and impact in the region.
Fresh Del Monte and Vellsam aim to maximize the use of residue utilization, enhance soil fertility, and meet the rising demand from consumers seeking nutritious, sustainably grown produce.
Stick with ANUK as we learn more about this endeavor.
