Just one look at the supermarket shelves is enough to understand how ready-to-eat salads have entered the habits of Italians. Lettuce packages, pre-washed and cut rocket and mixed salad have become a practical solution for many families, especially when there is little time to cook.
At home, in the office during the lunch break, on holiday or for a picnic, the fourth range offers a convenience that explains its diffusion. According to data cited by Confagricoltura, over 80% of Italian families purchase fourth range products. Italy is also a leader in Europe in the sector, with a turnover that in 2025 has exceeded one billion euros.
Climate and price increases put pressure on the sector
The success of the product, however, clashes with the difficulties of the agricultural supply chain. In the September 11 statement 2026, Confagricoltura reports that temperatures persistently above the seasonal average have compromised sowing, transplants and crop cycles.
Recalling data from Italian Food Union, the association highlights one reduction in agricultural volumes and product availability until 40%, along with an increase in waste up to 20% for failure to achieve quality standards.
Increases in diesel prices are also having an impact, electricity and transport, linked to international geopolitical tensions and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Farmers also report difficulties in obtaining plant protection products and increasing costs for adapting packaging.
How much does the packaging affect the price?
For budget-conscious families, a reflection comes from the president of Confagricoltura Massimiliano Giansanti:
“When you buy a pre-washed bag of salad at the supermarket, it's good to know the content, that is, what we eat, it is the element to which the lower value is attributed. In the composition of the price, everything else (packaging, transport) it had more impact".
Convenience, therefore, there is a cost. Comparing the price per kilo of ready-made salad with that of vegetables to prepare at home can help you better manage the family budget. But the time saved must also be considered, especially for those who work or eat meals away from home.
A pact to guarantee salad on the shelves
For Confagricoltura, the continuity of supplies will depend on the collaboration between farmers and large-scale retail trade. Procurement planning and cost sharing are needed to address climate-related risks.
Giansanti launches a clear appeal:
“To guarantee the fourth range on the shelves, we must build the conditions together so that the product can be cultivated".
Ready-made salads are now an ally in the daily life of many Italian families. The challenge, for the future, it will be to continue to guarantee this practicality by finding a balance between production sustainability, prices and choice for consumers.
Alex Gaetani
Source: Confagricoltura, press release of September 11th 2026.