Welcome to Arya North & South AgroIndustrial Co.
Our pistachios are grown in several varieties across different regions of Iran. Here are some of the main varieties and the regions where they are commonly cultivated:
1. Kerman Pistachios: Cultivated in the Kerman province, particularly in Rafsanjan, Sirjan, and Kerman city.
2. Ahmad Aghaei Pistachios: Also grown in Kerman province, notably in the Bam region.
3. Akbari Pistachios: Cultivated primarily in the Kerman province, including the city of Kerman.
4. Fandoghi Pistachios: Grown in various regions, including Kerman, Khorasan, and Yazd provinces.
5. Badami Pistachios: Cultivated in the Kerman province, especially in the city of Rafsanjan.
6. Momtaz Pistachios: Found in the Kerman province, particularly in Rafsanjan.
7. Ouhadi Pistachios: Cultivated in Kerman province, with Rafsanjan being a notable area.
8. Kaleh Ghouchi Pistachios: Grown in the Kerman province, including Rafsanjan and Kerman city.
These are some of the main varieties of our pistachios, with Kerman province being a significant hub for pistachio cultivation in Iran.
The harvesting time for our pistachios varies depending on the variety and the region where they are grown. Generally, pistachios are harvested once they reach maturity, which typically occurs in late summer to early autumn.
Here’s a rough timeline for the harvesting season of our pistachios:
1. Early to Mid-August: Harvesting of early-maturing varieties may begin in some regions.
2. Mid to Late August: Harvesting of most varieties of our pistachios typically starts during this period and continues into September.
3. September: The peak harvesting season for pistachios in Iran, with most varieties being harvested during this month.
4. Early October: Harvesting may continue into early October for some late-maturing varieties or in certain regions.
It’s essential to monitor the pistachio orchards closely during this period to determine the optimal time for harvesting, as it can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and the specific variety of pistachio being cultivated.
Aflatoxin contamination in pistachios is primarily caused by molds belonging to the Aspergillus genus, particularly Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. These molds produce aflatoxins, which are highly toxic and carcinogenic compounds harmful to humans and animals if consumed in significant quantities.
Several factors contribute to aflatoxin contamination in pistachios:
1. Environmental Conditions: Warm temperatures, high humidity, and inadequate drying of pistachio nuts after harvest create favorable conditions for mold growth and aflatoxin production.
2. Insect Damage: Insects such as navel orangeworms and sap beetles can cause physical damage to pistachio nuts, creating entry points for mold spores and increasing the risk of aflatoxin contamination.
3. Poor Storage Practices: Improper storage conditions, such as inadequate ventilation, high moisture levels, and exposure to sunlight, can promote mold growth and aflatoxin production in stored pistachio nuts.
To mitigate aflatoxin contamination in pistachios, various preventive measures can be implemented:
1. Good Agricultural Practices (GAP): Implementing GAP during pistachio cultivation, including proper irrigation management, pest control, and timely harvesting, helps reduce the risk of aflatoxin contamination.
2. Harvesting Practices: Harvest pistachios at the optimal maturity stage and handle them carefully to minimize physical damage, which can provide entry points for mold.
3. Drying: Promptly dry harvested pistachios to reduce moisture levels and inhibit mold growth. Use proper drying methods and equipment to ensure thorough drying without overheating.
4. Storage Conditions: Store pistachios in clean, dry, and well-ventilated facilities with controlled temperature and humidity levels. Regularly inspect stored nuts for signs of mold growth and promptly remove any contaminated batches.
5. Aflatoxin Testing: Conduct regular aflatoxin testing of pistachio batches to monitor contamination levels and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
By implementing these preventive measures throughout the pistachio production and supply chain, growers, processors, and handlers can effectively minimize the risk of aflatoxin contamination in pistachios, safeguarding consumer health and food safety.
6. Orchard Management: Prevent branches of pistachio trees from touching the ground, as contact with soil increases the risk of aflatoxin contamination. This practice helps minimize the transfer of soil-borne fungi, including aflatoxin-producing molds, to the pistachio nuts.
By incorporating these additional measures, growers can further reduce the likelihood of aflatoxin contamination in pistachios, enhancing product quality and safety.
