A general assessment of the candied chestnut industry in Turkey

Abstract

European chestnut (Castanea sativa) is a commodity that contributes significantly to the Turkish economy. The most important value-added chestnut product in Turkey is candied chestnut. Production of chestnut puree, broken chestnut, chestnut flour and honey add significantly to its value. The majority of chestnut products are sold in Turkey. While chestnut cultivation occurs mostly in the Aegean and Black Sea regions of Turkey, conversion of chestnut to value-added products occurs in the Marmara region, particularly in Bursa. Chestnut products are used especially in the confectionery industry. Chestnut industry problems range from the supply of quality raw materials to marketing. The purpose of this study was to determine the current status of the Turkish chestnut industry (variety usage, product variety, processing techniques, storage, marketing, plant structure and capacity utilization). Survey questionnaires were sent to companies and the results were tabulated and evaluated.