From large-scale retail to middle schools, two events to educate on conscious fruit and vegetable consumption through hands-on, educational and fun experiences
An educational journey across Italy
The Ortofrutta Experience project recently reached two key regions of Italy’s agri-food sector: Lazio with OP Agrinatura and Lombardy with OP Sermide Ortofruit. Though different in approach, both events shared a single goal: to promote a culture of conscious fruit and vegetable consumption by involving young people, students, and large-scale distribution professionals in immersive, real-world experiences.
Lazio: behind the scenes of the supply chain with OP Agrinatura
Operating for over thirty years in Lazio’s fruit and vegetable sector, OP Agrinatura organized a training day aimed at students and large-scale retail buyers. Students from the IIS San Benedetto Inandi Mattei in Borgo Piave had the chance to see firsthand how a fruit and vegetable order is handled, from field to supermarket shelf.
Through logistics simulations and a real quality control inspection carried out by a large-scale retail operator, students learned how products like watermelons, carrots, and zucchini reach the consumer. As agronomist Christian Marsano emphasized, the theme “Do you know what’s behind a GDO order?” revealed the complexity and professionalism behind daily trade practices.
Lombardy: the superpower of health for the youngest
In Lombardy, the focus was on younger generations and their nutritional education. The “Fruit and vegetables: the superpower of health” open day organized by OP Sermide Ortofruit involved middle school students from the Maretti Tregiardini Comprehensive Institute in a day dedicated to healthy eating habits.
Nutritionist Federica Bombarda explained the health benefits of daily fruit and vegetable intake in an engaging and accessible way. She was joined by Tonino Zerbinati, founder of both OP Sermide and Zerbinati farm, who introduced students to the melon production cycle and guided them on a playful greenhouse tour. Local mayors and sports associations also joined, highlighting the project’s strong community impact.
A replicable format for a healthier Italy
Ortofrutta Experience proves to be a flexible and impactful format, capable of adapting to different regions and audiences—from supply chain professionals to young students. The project not only promotes fruit and vegetable consumption, but also strengthens the bond between local communities, agricultural producers, and schools.
FAQ
1. What is Ortofrutta Experience?
It is an educational and promotional project designed to enhance Italian fruit and vegetable consumption.
2. Who organized the events?
OP Agrinatura in Lazio and OP Sermide Ortofruit in Lombardy.
3. What is the main goal?
To educate people on conscious consumption and connect communities with producers.
4. Who took part in the Lazio event?
Students from IIS San Benedetto and large-scale retail professionals.
5. What activities were done in Lazio?
Quality control demonstrations, logistics simulations, and product education.
6. What happened in Lombardy?
Educational activities for middle schoolers focused on nutrition and healthy habits.
7. Who were the speakers in Lombardy?
Nutritionist Federica Bombarda and producer Tonino Zerbinati.
8. Which products were highlighted during the events?
Watermelons, carrots, zucchinis, and melons.
9. Were local institutions involved?
Yes, local mayors and associations actively participated.
10. Will the project continue in other regions?
Yes, it’s a modular and scalable initiative across Italy.
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