Itaí lychee producers diversify into processed goods to reduce waste

Lychee producers in Itaí, São Paulo, are implementing new strategies to reduce waste and extend their income periods. By cultivating different varieties with varying maturation cycles, farmers can extend the harvest from late November through January.

To address the issue of approximately 20% of crops being discarded for not meeting visual commercial standards, producers are diversifying into processed goods. These include nine different derivatives such as frozen, dehydrated, and freeze-dried fruit, as well as spirits (aguardente). This shift allows for year-round revenue rather than concentrating profits in a short seasonal window.

Currently, about 40% of the production is exported as fresh fruit, requiring rapid logistics due to the fruit's short shelf life. Local producers are also advocating for the creation of a supply network to support a proposed lychee juice factory, which could be the first of its kind in Brazil.