OP I Fasolari
The OP I Fasolari dell'Alto Adriatico, recognized in 2003, unites all the companies in Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia that fish the “Callista chione” clams with a rigorous management plan. It represents 100% of the national production of clams and is a unique model in the sector. Innovation and sustainability are its pillars, with certifications such as FoS and “ready to cook” and “ready to eat” frozen products.
Key products: fresh whole clams, frozen clam pulp, frozen half-shell clams.
The product
The Organization fishes and produces a single product: Fasolaro (Callista Chione). But, in recent years, it has invested significantly in research and innovation to increase the added value of its products through a line of “ready to cook” and “ready to eat” products.
Caught in the Adriatic at depths of up to 10 - 20 meters, it reaches dimensions of up to 9 cm. Immediately after delivery, the product is subjected to a sorting and washing process, after which it is packaged, then placed in nets and sealed with an irremovable label to guarantee the traceability of the fresh product.
The production
In order not to always burden the same clam beds, the different fishing zones are periodically rotated in order to safeguard the resource. Each fishing vessel is equipped with a database with the coordinates of the beds where the clams are present.
The method of fishing for fasolaro involves the use of a hydraulic dredge, consisting of a metal cage that collects the molluscs present on the sandy bottom, on which it is dragged. A responsible and sustainable fishing that has recently allowed the organization to obtain the “Friend of the Sea” certification. In 2007, the organization obtained the product certification and the supply chain traceability certification according to the UNI EN ISO 22005 standard.
