The Callosa d'en Sarrià loquat production area is located in the north-east of the province of Alicante from the Guadalest Valley and stretches along the coast from Altea to Villajoyosa. The protected area is made up of a unique orography formed by several mountain ranges, which gives rise to a differentiated microclimate. This microclimate is characterised by mild temperatures throughout the year and rainfall somewhat higher than that recorded on the Mediterranean coast. Thus, the combination of the microclimate of mild temperatures and slightly higher rainfall results in a yellowish-orange colouring of the fruit, which is more accentuated than in loquat trees grown in other areas. Loquat cultivation is noted for being environmentally friendly, as no insecticides are applied so as not to harm the bees, which are so necessary for pollination. Harvesting, sorting and packaging are carried out manually in order to preserve traditional agricultural practices. Once harvested, the loquats do not receive any post-harvest treatment, so they reach the consumer with the highest quality, preserving their nutritional and organoleptic properties to the maximum.
The Protected Designation of Origin 'Nísperos Callosa d'en Sarrià' certifies since 2014 the origin and the differentiated quality of the authentic Callosa d'en Sarrià loquat, guaranteeing the exceptional qualities of this exquisite fruit from the tree to the table.
The loquat is a fruit very rich in carotenoids (provitamin A) that help to take care of the skin. It is highly recommended for sportsmen and women or people with muscular problems due to its high potassium content. It also contains fibre and mucilage which, by acting as prebiotics, help to balance the intestinal flora.
The geographical limits of the production area are the Mediterranean Sea to the east, the Bernia mountain range to the north-east and the Sella and Amadorio rivers to the west. It is a sustainable crop, since the loquat's perfect acclimatisation to the area eliminates the use of greenhouses, only requiring wind protection nets. The energetic costs of production are minimal, as the proximity of springs means that irrigation water does not have to travel long distances. The sorting and packaging warehouses, located in the immediate vicinity of the production area, facilitate the reduction of the carbon footprint.
Loquat cultivation is the axis around which the life and economy of Callosa d'en Sarrià revolves. This favours the creation of employment and allows the young population to have a way of life rooted in the territory, thus preventing the depopulation of rural areas. Thus, loquat cultivation develops the environment and promotes the fixation of the population in the area. The high percentage of exported fruit gives visibility to the area and projects Callosa d'en Sarrià internationally, facilitating other business alternatives such as tourism.
