Pistachio

Pistachio cultivation and trade date back to thousands of years in Iran, with about a century of industrial production and export as an agricultural commodity. Iran’s pistachio production volume stands at an average of around 200,000 metric tons annually. Currently, pistachios are cultivated in 27 provinces in Iran. The unique organoleptic characteristics of Iranian pistachio nuts make them versatile and universally appreciated both as a snack and as an ingredient. In contrast to most other nuts, the hard shells of pistachio nuts split during the final stages of nut ripening, while still on the tree. Significantly, raw dried in-shell pistachio nuts have an exceedingly long shelf life. Pistachios are also an exceptional source of healthy nutrients in the human diet. The unique flavor and color of the kernel makes pistachios an excellent choice of a topping or ingredient as a condiment. Iranian pistachios come in many different varieties, shapes and sizes. Some very well-known pistachio varieties are Fandogi (round), long (Akbari), Ahmad Aghaii, and Jumbo Kale Ghuchi pistachios.

Most pistachio exported from Iran are raw, in bulk, as dried in-shell, natural kernels or green peeled pistachio kernels. In-shell pistachios are consumed as a snack. However, natural pistachio kernels can be consumed both as a snack or as an ingredient in the food industry. Green peeled pistachio kernels are used as an ingredient in foods, pastries, chocolates, ice creams and processed meat products.

Thanks to modern planting methods and science-oriented farming there has been significant progress on aflatoxin and pesticide residue control in different sectors of Iran’s pistachio industry. Improved awareness of pistachio processors has resulted in much better control of aflatoxin contamination during the fresh processing phase. Furthermore, ODELNUT is experienced in understanding the different needs and product specifications of importers in various countries.

Kale Ghuchi (JUMBO) Pistachio:

Kale Ghuchi Pistachio is one of the well-known pistachio cultivars in Iran. The hazelnut-shaped large kernel has led to the growing popularity of this cultivar. The harvest time of Kale Ghuchi Pistachio is the second half of September. This type of pistachio is found in sizes 20-22, 22-20, 24-22, 26-24 and size 18-20 is also available in small quantities. Since Kale Ghuchi Pistachio is one of the early flowering cultivars, it is more at risk of late spring frosts and the damage caused by it. This type is also sensitive to water and food shortages.

Fandoghi (Round) Pistachio:

One of the most famous types of pistachios in Iran is Fandoghi pistachio, which is also known as Ohadi pistachio. This type of pistachio is called Fandoghi pistachio because it has a round and hazelnut-like appearance and of course it is known as Round in the world. In almost all provinces where pistachios are grown, hazelnut pistachios are also grown; From Kerman, Yazd and Khorasan Razavi to Fars, Markazi, Qazvin and even Tehran! But the center of hazelnut pistachio cultivation is Kerman province.

Features of Round Fandoghi pistachio:

• This pistachio is found in sizes 28-30, 32-30, 34-32.
• It Has a green kernel
• Width 11 and diameter 11.6 mm
• It’s Very tasty and delicious

Ahmad Aghaii:

This type of pistachio is very popular in global markets and many countries are interested in buying this pistachio. High yield and low time required for harvesting are the prominent features of this type of pistachio. Kerman province has the highest production of Ahmad Aghaei pistachios The kernel of this type of pistachio is elongated and can be found in sizes 24-24, 26-24, 28-26, 30-30. Also, size 22-20 is available in small quantities for this pistachio. red skin kernel of this type of pistachio has made Ahmad Aghaei famous as one of the best types of pistachios. This pistachio is considered as a medium and late harvesting cultivar. 90% of this product is exported to other countries rather than being consumed in national market. Some features of Ahmad Aghaei pistachio:

• Green color Kernel
• Redness of skin
• Relatively large and elongated almond dimensions

Akbari pistachio:

One of the most valuable Iranian pistachios is Akbari pistachio. In fact, this pistachio has the highest economic value and is known as Iranian pistachio in other countries. This pistachio has an elongated or even very elongated size and almond-shaped. Its shell color is dark cream and its kernal is purple-brown. Akbari pistachios come in sizes 20 to 28. Khorasan, Kerman and Semnan are the three main provinces for the production of this pistachio, but Kerman has a greater share than other provinces.