• Location 

    Ravenna (Italy) 

    • Organization Profile  

      Società agricola srl 

      • Organisation Information

        Cà Colonna Ltd is an innovative organic farm operating a fully integrated and sustainable agro-food value chain. Recognized as an innovative small enterprise under Italian Law (DL 179/2012 art.29; DL 3/2015 art.4; L. 33/2015; Ministry of Economy Decree, 7 May 2019), the company combines agricultural production, research and technology transfer to promote on-farm experimentation and innovation. 

        The farm and its network cover over 40 hectares, equipped with advanced precision agriculture technologies, including satellite-controlled transplanting with biodegradable planting materials and precise drip irrigation systems. All field production is certified organic, with ongoing initiatives in carbon farming. Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fDzBUh1UHCrn5qWJ8 

        Cà Colonna manages a modern logistics and processing hub featuring a cold chain warehouse and packinghouse certified under GlobalG.A.P.-GRASP and IFS standards. Its strategic location—just 20 km from the Port of Ravenna and 3 km from the Vignali fresh produce transport platform—ensures efficient distribution across Europe. The company’s net worth is 2.2 million euros. 

        The farm actively supports biodiversity restoration, focusing on the recovery and reintroduction of traditional and alimurgic (wild edible) herbs, alongside vermicompost production in compliance with Reg. (CE) 889/2008 and Reg. (EU) 2018/1584. 

        Through its social farming initiatives, Cà Colonna collaborates with social cooperatives and municipal social services to create inclusive employment opportunities for people with vulnerabilities, following a dedicated social farming protocol. 

        In food processing and product innovation, the company develops gourmet vegetable products inspired by traditional Artusi recipes, highlighting local grains, pulses and herbs, as well as agri-cosmetics derived from vegetable biodiversity. 

        Cà Colonna contributes to agricultural innovation with European patents for new varieties, including the Red Pear (CPVO file n.2019/2312) and Sweet Ginger (CPVO 2020-1431), and is involved in the development of evolutionary plant populations. The company also employs blockchain-based traceability (TrakIT) to ensure transparency across its supply chain. 

        • On-going activities related to Food Loss: 

          Evaluation of food losses in field and impact on yields 

          Cà Colonna is actively engaged in reducing food loss through a fully integrated approach that connects agriculture, processing, distribution, and consumption. The company implements intelligent and ecologically sustainable production systems adapted to climate change, preserving soil, water, and biodiversity while ensuring resources are used efficiently and sustainably. 

          In the agricultural phase, Cà Colonna applies circular economy principles to optimize resource use and minimize waste throughout the food system. Precision farming techniques enhance yield and quality while reducing inputs such as water, energy, and fertilizers, contributing to both environmental sustainability and competitiveness. 

          In processing and distribution, the company promotes an innovation ecosystem that links production with marketing and logistics, ensuring that raw materials are fully utilized and food waste is minimized along the supply chain. Investments are directed toward value-added products and new business models that transform surplus or lower-grade produce into marketable goods. 

          Cà Colonna also fosters collaboration among diverse stakeholders to develop and implement effective food loss prevention strategies at local and international levels. 

          At the consumer level, the company promotes products aligned with nutritional principles and high food safety standards, ensuring traceability and encouraging responsible consumption patterns that further reduce food loss across the value chain. 

          • Drivers  for participating in the FOLOU TWRP 

            Evaluation of losses on the value-chain of vegetables; identification of points for improvement  

            Cà Colonna’s participation in the FOLOU TWRP (Food Loss and Waste Transformation and Recovery Programme) is driven by a combination of economic, environmental, technological, and social factors aligned with its integrated agrifood model and mission for sustainable innovation. 

            Key Drivers: 

            1. Economic Efficiency and Value Creation: Reduction of post-harvest and processing losses through improved storage and logistics; Valorization of agricultural by-products into new product lines (e.g. vegetable paste, crème etc.); Enhanced resource efficiency, leading to cost savings and stronger competitiveness. 

            2. Innovation and Knowledge Transfer. Access to research and innovation networks for food loss prevention and circular economy solutions. Collaboration with R&D institutions to co-develop technologies for traceability, processing, and upcycling. Opportunity to pilot scalable innovations within a real farm and processing environment. 

            3. Environmental and Sustainability Commitment. Reinforcement of circular practices by transforming waste streams into valuable inputs. Contribution to EU and UN sustainability targets (Farm-to-Fork Strategy, SDG 12.3). Measurable reduction in environmental footprint through improved resource management. 

            4. Social and Ethical Engagement. Creation of inclusive employment pathways for vulnerable individuals within the agrifood sector. Promotion of ethical food practices and education on responsible consumption. Strengthening of local social capital through cooperative and community engagement.  

            5. Compliance and Market Access. Anticipation of evolving EU regulations on waste reduction and sustainability reporting. Alignment with buyer and retailer sustainability requirements. Eligibility for green financing, certification schemes, and sustainability-driven markets. 

            • Other actors engaged in the implementation of FOLOU TWRP activities 

              Upstream Stakeholders (Input & Support Providers): Seed and Biodiversity Suppliers, Agricultural Technology Providers, Certification and Control Bodies 

              Downstream Stakeholders (Value-Chain Partners): Distributors and Retailers, Food Banks / Redistribution NGOs, Consumers and Local Communities 

              • Relevant Links: 

                Web: www.cacolonna.it 

                Linkeding: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ca-colonna-7bb245177/ 

                Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fDzBUh1UHCrn5qWJ8