INNOPOM

Innovative systems for the control of Alternaria and related mycotoxins in tomatoes

The project was initiated in response to European Commission Recommendation 2022/553, which sets the maximum levels of alternariol in processed tomato products. Since vegetable crops have so far not been actively involved in mycotoxin management, farmers currently lack both information and effective strategies to control them. It is therefore necessary to identify the best field practices to reduce alternariol contamination in tomatoes while safeguarding the quality of Italian produce.

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS:
The main objective of the project is to identify the most critical points in the tomato supply chain with respect to alternariol contamination and to define effective measures to reduce it, in compliance with the levels indicated in EU Recommendation 2022/553. The actions focus primarily on the production phase in the field, analyzing the influence of weather conditions, the susceptibility of the most commonly grown tomato varieties, and the agronomic practices employed, including innovative techniques such as the use of drones. The processing phase is also considered, evaluating how sorting and various technological steps affect the presence of mycotoxins in final products such as sauces, purées, and concentrates.

Research Partners:

  • Centro di Formazione, Sperimentazione e Innovazione “Vittorio Tadini”
  • AS.I.P.O. Soc.Coop.Agr. – Lead Partner
  • Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
  • CITIMAP scarl

Involved Companies:

  • Agricola Bosco di Stefano e Marina Società Agricola – Società semplice
  • Arata Pierluigi – Individual enterprise
  • Bosco Gregorio – Individual enterprise
  • Gallinella Società Agricola – Società semplice
  • Mantovani Mattia – Individual enterprise
  • Menozzi Antonio Angelo Enrico Società Agricola – Società semplice
  • Milani Rodolfo – Individual enterprise
  • Morlacchini Stefano – Individual enterprise
  • Scrocchi Nicola – Individual enterprise
  • Società Agricola Bertozzi Enzo Ivano e Gianni – Società semplice
  • Società Agricola Martini di Martini Christian e Achille – Società semplice
  • Terre della Val Trebbia di Repetti Fratelli Società Agricola – Società semplice
  • Greci Industria Alimentare S.p.A.
  • Rodolfi Mansueto S.p.A.

Project Leads:

  • Project Manager: Arata Pierluigi
  • Scientific Coordinator: Bertuzzi Terenzio

Duration: 36 months (01/11/2024 – 31/10/2027)

Funding:

  • Total approved project cost: €361,529.79
  • Total approved CO-PSR contribution: €327,387.32