How to process pistachios

Pistachio processing involves a series of steps, from harvesting the pistachios to preparing them for consumption or export. Below are the main steps in pistachio processing:

1. Pistachio Harvesting
This stage usually takes place in late summer and early fall. Pistachios are harvested from the trees by hand or mechanical methods. Fresh pistachios have a thin green covering called the “soft skin” that must be removed quickly from the pistachio kernel.

2. Peeling (removing the soft skin)
In this step, the soft green skin on the fresh pistachio is removed from the pistachio using special machines. This must be done quickly to prevent the pistachio from turning black and spoiling.

3. Washing
The pistachios are washed after shelling to remove any dirt, dust, or soft skin residue.

4. Sorting pistachios by quality
After washing, pistachios are sorted by quality. Cracked, split (opened) and intact pistachios are divided into different categories. Usually, heavier and better quality pistachios float, while lighter and lower quality pistachios sink in the water.

5. Drying pistachios
After washing, pistachios must be dried to reduce their moisture content to a standard level. Drying is done in two ways: naturally (in the sun) or industrially (using mechanical dryers).

6. Secondary peeling (removal of hard shell)
This step is related to the separation and peeling of cracked and smooth pistachios. For pistachios with cracked and smooth hard shells, peeling is done mechanically. This step is usually done for pistachios that are to be used as pistachio kernels.

7. Packaging and Storage
The processed pistachios are packaged at this stage based on type and quality. Proper packaging should prevent moisture, pests, and dust from entering. The pistachios are stored in appropriate conditions and are ready for sale or export.

8. Salting and Flavoring (Optional)
In some cases, pistachios are salted or processed with various flavorings, such as saffron or lemon juice, before packaging.

Proper processing of pistachios ensures high quality of the final product and increases its shelf life. Compliance with hygiene standards at every stage of processing is also of great importance.