What Is Veracruz Almonds All About?
Veracruz Almonds is all about passion for agriculture, producing the finest Mediterranean almonds in a truly privileged spot. But it’s not just about growing almonds—it’s about doing it sustainably, using cutting-edge technology every step of the way. From planting those first seeds to the moment the almonds reach the consumer’s plate, every stage is carefully controlled and monitored. It’s a blend of tradition and innovation, with a strong focus on quality and care.
The Main Benefits and Key Figures
Veracruz Almonds isn’t just any almond producer; it’s a leader in quality and sustainability. Here are some standout facts that show why:
- 6 Certifications: Including Global Gap, Integrated Production, Spring, FSA Leaf Marque, GRASP, and Certified Regenerative.
- 1300 Hectares: Spanning almond orchards in Fundão and Idanha a Nova.
- 50 Jobs: Supporting the local workforce in Beira Interior.
- 5.7 Million Euros: Invested in technology to boost smart farming.
- 20% of Jobs: Focused on agrotech roles, blending agriculture with tech innovation.
Smart Farming: Technology Meets Tradition
What sets Veracruz apart? Their smart farming approach. They’re all about balancing high productivity with environmental respect. How? By investing in technologies that make production smarter and resource use more efficient. For example, they’re the first in the world to offer traceable almonds thanks to blockchain technology—tracking every step from soil to shelf. Plus, drones (both aerial and ground) help spot issues quickly and accurately. And here’s something cool: they use Aqua4D technology to treat water before it hits the crops, aiming for zero water waste. Soil health is a priority too, with inter-row planting, organic fertilization from tree pruning leftovers, and selecting the most efficient almond varieties.
Sustainability at the Core
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s embedded in everything Veracruz does. They meet some of the toughest quality and food safety standards out there, backed by certifications like Global Gap and Certified Regenerative. Their commitment goes beyond the farm, ensuring that every almond is produced with minimal environmental impact. It’s about growing almonds responsibly, protecting the planet, and setting a new standard for the industry.
From Soil to Shelf: The Production Process
Every stage of production is carefully managed to keep those 1300 hectares productive and sustainable. It’s a full-circle process:
- Soil Preparation: The foundation for healthy trees and easier management throughout their life.
- Plant Care: Precision agriculture guides irrigation, fertilization, and pruning plans.
- Harvesting: Almond health is monitored daily to pick at just the right time.
- Storage: Almonds are kept in perfect conditions to maintain crunchiness and ideal humidity.
- Transformation: Enhancing the almonds while following strict food safety guidelines.
- Distribution: Delivered efficiently by partners who prioritize quality and speed.
Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger – by promoting sustainable agriculture and food security.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – creating jobs and supporting local economies.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – integrating advanced technology in farming.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – ensuring sustainable production practices.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – protecting soil health and biodiversity through regenerative methods.
Social Responsibility and Community Engagement
Veracruz Almonds is deeply rooted in its community. Supporting the local economy is a priority, with a focus on local suppliers and small businesses. This approach not only generates jobs but also energizes the region’s economic landscape. Beyond business, Veracruz partners with universities and research institutes to foster scientific knowledge and continuous improvement. They also collaborate with organizations promoting the Portuguese agri-food sector, showing a commitment to both innovation and regional development.
