Iran strengthens its position in global pistachio market with FAO support

Iran is stepping up efforts to improve the safety and export potential of pistachios by holding a series of specialised workshops under the project “Improving Pistachio Production and Export through Establishment of Integrated Product Management.” The project is implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) in Iran in cooperation with the country's Ministry of Agriculture. This is reported by Tehran Times, a partner of TV BRICS.

The workshops focused on developing and implementing integrated mycotoxin management plans, ensuring safe production, and strengthening best practices to ensure pistachio safety and quality.

The event brought together 60 key stakeholders from government, the private sector (including pistachio growers, processors, and traders), and academia.

Iran is one of the world's leading producers and exporters of high-quality pistachios, and the industry plays an important role in the country's economy and global nut trade.

FAO notes that aflatoxins produced by Aspergillus fungi can form at various stages of the pistachio supply chain due to environmental factors, farming practices and post-harvest handling.

Iran is actively implementing Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), applying strict quality control mechanisms, improving drying and storage practices, enhancing mycotoxin testing and utilising biological control solutions.

The FAO project aims to improve integrated supply chain management of pistachios, focusing on productivity, harvesting, processing, and compliance with food safety regulations.