Introduction – Current State of Play: The Peanuts Sector in Italy
Italy’s peanut market is going through a transformation—and not just a small one. Between shifting global supply chains, emerging domestic production, and evolving consumer preferences, the humble peanut has found itself in the middle of a dynamic and fast-paced trade environment.
Let’s start with the basics: while Italy still heavily depends on peanut imports, particularly from Argentina and Brazil, that reliance is being tested. Droughts in South America have slashed peanut output by up to 35%, causing a ripple across the European market. Prices are climbing, and availability is shrinking. But it’s not just about supply—there’s also growing concern over aflatoxin contamination, especially in imports from the U.S. and Brazil.
On the home front, Italy is exploring its potential to grow peanuts domestically. Research suggests that regions like Ferrara in the northeast can produce peanuts that meet high food safety standards, provided they are grown with proper irrigation and monitoring. But unpredictable weather patterns, especially reduced rainfall, still pose a challenge to consistent yields.
Meanwhile, Italian consumers are standing by their peanuts. Even as prices go up, demand remains strong—driven by a wave of health-conscious eating trends. People are choosing quality over cost, and that’s changing how suppliers and importers approach the market.
In this fast-changing environment, businesses must stay ahead of the curve. Whether you’re sourcing peanuts, distributing products, or investing in agriculture, staying informed and agile is key.
Deep Dive – What’s Making Headlines? Key Recent News & Impacts
So, what’s been happening lately in Italy’s peanut scene?
Import Trends: Recovery Amid Price Pressure
Italy imported around $38 million worth of groundnuts in 2024—slightly down from previous years. But there’s a silver lining: volumes are up 4.5%, reaching 17,000 tons. Egypt now dominates the supplier field, accounting for a whopping 77% of imports. Israel and the U.S. also play a role, with Israel offering premium products priced at over $3,900 per ton.
The average import price sits at $2,269 per ton, reflecting the global shortage and the demand for premium, clean peanuts.
Supply Chain Revitalization: The Return of Italian-Grown Peanuts
Here’s the big news: after nearly 50 years, Italy is bringing back its own peanuts.
Thanks to a collaboration between Società Italiana Sementi (SIS), Coldiretti (Italy’s leading farmers’ union), and dried fruit company Noberasco, the country is rolling out 100% Italian-grown peanuts.
This initiative is more than just a feel-good story. It’s a serious attempt to reduce dependency on imports, support sustainable agriculture, and appeal to the growing demand for local, traceable food sources. The plan is to expand cultivation to over 30,000 hectares in the coming years.
Investment in Local Agriculture: A Bet on Sustainability
With this revival comes investment. Companies like Noberasco are pouring resources into building a resilient, high-quality domestic supply chain. This move isn’t just about national pride—it’s also about environmental impact and meeting the expectations of modern consumers who care about where their food comes from.
Italy is betting big on peanuts, and early signs suggest it could pay off.
Top 6 Verified Peanuts Suppliers in Italy – Navigating Current Market Realities
These suppliers have been selected based on their certifications, global reach, export performance, and buyer reviews on platforms like Freshdi, which provides real-time RFQ trends, supplier verification, and market insights.
Here are the Top 6 Peanuts Suppliers in Italy in Quarter 2 of 2025:
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Dolci Peluso srl
Known for its high-quality peanut cream with low sugar content, Dolci Peluso srl caters to the health-conscious market. Their innovative product packaging and flavor profiles have earned strong reviews on Freshdi. -
Noberasco SpA
A key player in the rebirth of Italy’s domestic peanut industry, Noberasco offers a wide range of organic and conventional nuts. Their investment in local sourcing and quality control makes them a top choice for eco-conscious buyers. -
Life Srl
Based in Piedmont, this supplier focuses on natural and organic peanut snacks. Their products are found across major retail chains in Italy and Europe, with strong feedback for consistency and taste. -
Ventura (Madi Ventura SpA)
A household name in Italy’s nut and dried fruit industry, Ventura is known for its reliability and broad distribution network. Their peanuts are available in both B2C and B2B formats. -
Agrinuts Italia
Specializing in bulk supply for food manufacturers, Agrinuts Italia is a go-to supplier for private label peanut butter and snack producers. Their facility is HACCP and ISO certified, ensuring strong quality compliance. -
Frutta Secca Morando
Located in the Emilia-Romagna region, this family-run business has gained traction for its roasted and flavored peanuts. Their focus on artisanal methods meets the growing demand for gourmet snacks.
Dynamic Ranking Note:
Don’t forget—platforms like Freshdi offer dynamic supplier rankings such as “Suppliers of the Month” or “Top RFQ Responders,” which reflect real-time performance and engagement. Be sure to check Freshdi often for the latest updates.
Market Navigation – Strategic Responses to The Current Peanuts Landscape in Italy
Given the current climate, how should businesses adjust?
1. Diversify Sourcing Channels
With Argentina and Brazil facing crop issues, heavily relying on South American imports is risky. Businesses should consider diversifying their supplier base by including Egyptian, Israeli, and now Italian-grown peanuts.
Tip: Use platforms like Freshdi to compare suppliers, check certifications, and request RFQs tailored to your quality and volume needs.
2. Focus on Quality Assurance
Aflatoxin contamination is a serious issue, especially from certain regions. Make sure your suppliers have robust testing protocols and certifications. Italian-grown peanuts are gaining traction because they meet EU food safety standards when managed properly.
3. Embrace Local Opportunities
Italy’s domestic peanut production is still small but growing. Getting in early with partnerships or long-term contracts can offer better prices, fresher products, and more control over supply chain transparency.
4. Adjust Pricing and Product Strategies
Consumers are still buying peanuts, even at higher prices—especially if the health benefits and quality are clear. Consider marketing value-added products like peanut butter, protein snacks, or organic options that justify premium pricing.
5. Monitor the Market Actively
The peanut market is shifting fast. Stay informed with Freshdi’s market insights, which track RFQ trends, supply chain alerts, and pricing changes in real time.
Conclusion – Key Takeaways for Businesses in a Dynamic Market
Italy’s peanut market in 2025 is a fascinating mix of opportunity and challenge.
Global disruptions are pushing prices up and availability down, but domestic cultivation is stepping in to fill the gap. Italian consumers remain loyal to peanut products, especially when they’re healthy, eco-friendly, and locally sourced.
For businesses, the key is to stay informed, flexible, and proactive. Whether you’re sourcing from Egypt, exploring Italy’s new domestic suppliers, or launching a new peanut-based product, the time to act is now.
And if you need help navigating this changing landscape, Freshdi has your back. From verified supplier directories to live RFQ data, it’s your go-to platform for smarter, faster, and safer sourcing.
Checklist for Peanut Buyers in Italy (2025)
- ✅ Have you diversified your peanut sourcing beyond Argentina and Brazil?
- ✅ Are you verifying supplier certifications for aflatoxin control?
- ✅ Are you considering local Italian suppliers for sustainability and proximity?
- ✅ Are your products aligned with consumer health trends (e.g., organic, low sugar)?
- ✅ Are you using platforms like Freshdi for real-time sourcing insights?
Future Outlook – What’s Next for Peanuts in Italy?
The Italian peanut market is poised for growth—especially domestically. If the current pace continues, we could see Italy emerge as a net exporter within the decade. Technological improvements in irrigation, better seed quality, and growing environmental awareness are all driving this shift.
For importers and distributors, this means more options and better control. But staying ahead requires active engagement with the latest data and supplier performance metrics.
Keep your eyes on the prize—and your sourcing strategy on point.
FAQs
1. Why are peanut prices rising in Italy?
Because of droughts in Argentina and contamination issues in other regions, supply has tightened. At the same time, consumer demand remains strong, pushing prices up.
2. Is Italy producing its own peanuts now?
Yes! Through partnerships between SIS, Coldiretti, and Noberasco, Italy is reviving domestic peanut farming, focusing on quality and sustainability.
3. Which supplier is best for high-quality peanut butter ingredients?
Dolci Peluso srl and Agrinuts Italia are excellent choices for peanut butter ingredients, offering low-sugar and bulk options respectively.
4. Can I find certified suppliers who test for aflatoxins?
Absolutely. Use Freshdi to find verified suppliers with certifications like HACCP and ISO, and those who actively test for aflatoxins.
5. What’s the advantage of using Freshdi for sourcing peanuts?
Freshdi offers verified supplier lists, real-time RFQ activity, market insights, and dynamic supplier rankings—making it easier to make informed sourcing decisions quickly.
References
- PMC – Italian Peanut Cultivation & Food Safety
- CZAPP – European Peanut Prices Soar
- Mundus Agri – Consumers Prioritize Health
- Food Navigator – Global Peanut Shortage
- IndexBox – Italy Peanut Import Trends 2024
- Italian Food News – Italian Peanut Supply Chain
- AI-Lati – Peanut Investment in Italy
