Thank you very much Joseba for this interview. The first thing we want to know is, in what year and from what year does Ocean Almond begin?
The project began in 2012, and the first plantation materialised in 2013, from then on the growth was exponential until reaching the current 1,050 hectares.
What has 2018 been like for Ocean Almond?
A year of growth and consolidation.
You are located in Catalonia and Aragon. What are the advantages of the land in the north of the country? Why here?
The Ocean Almond project is located in the Lleida control area, which includes areas of Aragon. The quality of the land, the climate, the adaptation of new varieties, water supplies, etc. offer a great opportunity for this leading project in the sector.
And are public administrations supporting this sector as they do others?
It is not a subsidised sector. Private initiative is modernising the sector and productivity, with new irrigation technologies, management, varieties and intensive planting frames.
Tell us about the surface area you have. What is it? What does it amount to? So that we can get an idea.
Ocean Almond currently has 1,050 hectares under control and planted, equivalent to about 1,200 football fields!
Which are the main producing countries and where is consumption highest?
The world's largest producers are the United States 85%, Australia 6% and Spain 5%. In terms of consumption, countries that increase their standard of living increase their consumption of almonds as it is a healthy and versatile product. Worldwide, consumption is highest in the USA and Europe, although significant increases are being experienced in China, India and Arab countries.
What is the best time to eat almonds?
The almond is a product that keeps very well and can be consumed all year round in the different commercialised forms, snacks, almond drink, flour, sweets, nougat, cosmetics, etc.
It is said to be one of the foods with the most health benefits. Can you name some of them, or the one you think is the best?
After researching the nutritional value and health benefits, a study conducted this year by the US Department of Agriculture and Food & Health on 100 foods, has pointed out that almonds are the most complete superfood. The almond is number one, followed by cherimoya, ocean perch, chia seeds, etc.
What time of year do you recommend to visit the plantations?
Undoubtedly, when the blossoming takes place, around the middle of March. It is a sublime spectacle to see the almond trees in bloom.
What are the future plans for the company?
To consolidate, to continue growing, to be a benchmark in the sector and to become one of the largest producers of almonds.
#ODTest
Your perfect breakfast is? Fresh juice, coffee with milk and butter bun from La Suiza (Bilbao).
Your favourite work of art? The Painter on his Way to Work, Van Gogh.
Your best concert was in? National Theatre in Prague, one opera, Tosca.
Your favourite restaurant? El Barquet, Tarragona.
Your favourite getaway destination? Taormina, Sicily.
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