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05 July 2026

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Proper Harvesting Methods Determine Product Quality.

At Durak Hazelnut, we believe that one of the most important stages in producing high-quality and reliable hazelnuts is proper harvesting practices. Harvesting at the right time, using the correct methods, and paying attention to hygiene conditions contributes to preserving product quality, reducing the risk of aflatoxins, and preventing economic losses for our producers.
Harvesting Should Begin at the Right Time
Hazelnut harvesting should be carried out when the majority of the hazelnuts are ripe and easily separated from their husks. Hazelnuts harvested too early may have lower kernel fullness and yield. Delaying the harvest unnecessarily can lead to product losses, mold, and a decrease in quality values. Therefore, it is of great importance for our producers to regularly check their orchards and start harvesting according to the ripening status of the hazelnuts.
Orchards Should Be Prepared Before Harvesting
Before harvesting begins, weeds on the orchard floor should be removed, and dry branches, stones, and other materials that may hinder harvesting should be eliminated. The orchard floor should be clean and tidy;
• It ensures safer harvesting operations,
• Easier collection of fallen hazelnuts,
• Reduces contact between the product and soil and foreign matter. Fallen Hazelnuts Should Be Collected Without Delay
Hazelnuts that have ripened and fallen to the ground should be collected as soon as possible. Especially in products that remain on the damp garden ground for a long time, mold, discoloration and loss of quality can occur.
Not delaying the collection process is important in terms of protecting the reliability and commercial value of the product.
Prevention of Foreign Matter Mixing with the Product
Care should be taken to prevent stones, branches, leaves, soil and similar foreign materials from mixing with the hazelnuts during harvesting and collection.
The product harvested cleanly contributes to:
• Reducing losses during the processing stage,
• Preserving product quality,
• Supporting compliance with food safety and export criteria.
Drying Process Should Be Done Under Appropriate Conditions
The collected hazelnuts should be spread in a thin layer on a clean tarpaulin, cloth or suitable concrete surface. To ensure even drying, the hazelnuts need to be stirred at regular intervals.
Drying hazelnuts directly on the ground can cause contamination with moisture, soil, stones, and other foreign substances. Therefore, care should be taken to ensure the product comes into contact with a clean surface during the drying process.
In rainy weather, the products should be protected in a way that does not completely prevent air circulation, and wet hazelnuts should not be kept in closed containers or piles.
Moisture Content Should Be Controlled
Before storage, hazelnuts need to be sufficiently dried. Storing products with high moisture content increases the risk of mold, bad odor, insect infestation, aflatoxin formation, and significant losses in product quality.
Products should not be bagged or stored before they are completely dried.
Appropriate Storage Conditions Should Be Provided
Dried hazelnuts should be stored in clean, dry, cool, moisture-free, and well-ventilated areas. Product sacks should not be placed directly on the floor or walls; they should be placed on suitable pallets. Hazelnuts should not be stored in the same environment as fertilizers, pesticides, fuel, cleaning materials, and other chemical products. Regularly inspecting storage areas and taking necessary precautions against pests are also important for product safety.
Occupational Health and Safety is Our Priority During the Harvest Process
During the harvest period, the health and safety of workers should be considered as well as the quality of the product. Workers should use appropriate non-slip shoes, move carefully on sloping terrain, and use cutting tools safely.
In hot weather, workers should be provided with sufficient water, take regular breaks, and avoid working for long periods in direct sunlight. Personal protective equipment suitable for the job should be used, and children should absolutely not be allowed to work in harvesting.
We Strengthen Sustainable Hazelnut Production Together
At Durak Hazelnut, we know that correct harvesting practices not only increase product quality but also contribute to ensuring food safety, protecting natural resources, and sustainably increasing producer incomes. It is possible to obtain higher quality, reliable, and marketable hazelnuts with simple but effective methods that our producers will apply during the harvest period. We continue to work with our producers to ensure high-quality and sustainable hazelnut production and to support responsible farming practices at every stage of our value chain.

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