Global pistachio consumption
Global pistachio consumption
Pistachios have been eaten for over 300.000 years. They are a nut originating in the Middle East and were once part of the Neanderthal diet. This "Syrian walnut"", as it came to be known in ancient times, has not only been an exquisite delicacy throughout the centuries, it was also used to relieve ailments and as an aphrodisiac.
Today, pistachios are more than just a popular snack. Consumers are increasingly aware of the versatility of this fruit, of its profile nutrients and its bioactive compounds. Therefore, demand for it is rapidly growing in several countries.
In this post we present The most relevant figures on the global dynamics of pistachio consumption, as well as some estimates and growth rates. We also detail the main factors driving consumption of this nut and the reasons for its demand in countries such as the United States, Iran, Türkiye, and Spain.
Pistachio consumption data
It is important to keep up to date with pistachio consumption patterns, as well as with its key metricsDemand continues to rise, so this data is essential for identifying business and development opportunities.
According to the INC (International Nude & Priet Fruit) organization, the consumption of pistachios globally in 2022-2023 showed a notable increase, managing to reach the 843.006 metric tons.
If we focus on the main consumer countries, we can observe the metric tons consumed in 2022-2023:
➡️ United States: 471.746 tons consumed
➡️ Turkey: 240.000 tons consumed
➡️ Iran: 91.000 tons consumed
➡️ Syria: 19.500 tons consumed
➡️ Greece: 10.000 tons consumed
➡️ . 3.000 tons consumed
➡️ Italy 1.150 tons consumed
For period 2023-2024 Global pistachio consumption is expected to grow by 4,10%. Specifically, countries such as the United States, Iran, and Italy will experience significant increases in demand: 5,73%, 82,42%, and 4,35%, respectively.
Growth in pistachio consumption
Below we present graphically the evolution of world pistachio consumption, between 2012/2013 and August/2023.
Source: Statista.com
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What are the factors driving the increase in pistachio consumption?
Amongst the Main drivers of the increase in global pistachio consumption the following factors or situations are found:
Trends in consumer demand
Consumers are increasingly interested in their health and nutrition. They demand functional foods and clean-label products that contain ingredients with plant origins.
Consumers' awareness of the benefits of pistachios for the body is growing. For example, it has been widely reported that this nut is a rich source of fiber, protein, minerals and vitamins essential, making it perfect for creating nutritious, healthy and satisfying snacks.
Nutritional benefits of pistachios
The pistachio contains a considerable amount of potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and other minerals (copper, sodium, zinc, etc.). It is also a source of Vitamin A, E, C, K and B (except for B12). In addition, it has compounds phenolics and carotenoids, which give it antioxidant properties, among other capabilities.
Thanks to this entire profile of macro and micronutrients, pistachios are associated with health benefits, such as:
- Protection against cardiovascular diseases.
- Reduction of systolic blood pressure.
- Protection against various types of cancer.
- Blood glucose level balance.
- Cholesterol lowering.
- Reduction in the likelihood of suffering from digestive disorders.
- Improvement of inflammations, etc.
Pistachios are also a great contributor to the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industryBeing a fruit rich in essential and fixed oils, it is a powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial. Therefore, it can be incorporated into creams, soaps, shampoos, and other skin care products.
Versatility of pistachios
Pistachio versatility: a ingredients valioso in a wide range of food products.
On the other hand, the pistachio's culinary versatility has been more than interesting in satisfying everyone's tastes. Its subtle flavor, creamy texture, and unique color make it an ideal nut for a wide variety of sweet and savory dishes. home cooking and haute cuisine, as well as in the production of food at an industrial level.
Pistachios with or without shell, chopped, sliced, or stick pistachios, pistachio powder, pistachio oil, pistachio paste, raw or roasted pistachios, etc. The options are endless.
In addition, pistachios are a ingredients valioso In a wide range of food products, to enrich them, improve their flavor, and make them more attractive to consumers. For example, in snacks, ice cream, cookies, cakes, baked goods, ham, sausages, rice, cereals, sauces, dressings, etc.
All this versatility leaves an open field for the Development and innovation of pistachio-based products. This also attracts new consumers and expands business opportunities.
Main pistachio consuming countries
Global diversity is another factor that influences pistachio demand. Each region or country may exhibit certain unique trends or demands that determine, in one way or another, the increase in pistachio consumption. For example:
- Turkey. In this country, pistachios are an important part of the culture and customs. They are generally consumed directly, as a snack. They are also an essential ingredient in sweets, baked goods, and ice cream.
- U.S. Interest in the benefits of pistachios and the attraction of their unique flavor have led Americans to create pistachio butter and pistachio-flavored dairy products. The nut is also used as an ingredient in salads and as a snack.
- Iran. Pistachios are an important part of Iranian traditions, history, and rituals. Pistachios are a must-have at every celebration and banquet, in special dishes, sweets, meats, sausages, and as toasted or salted snacks.
- Italy. In the last 10 years, Italians have doubled their nut consumption. This is due to their increased awareness of the benefits of these foods. Pistachios are typically consumed as snacks. They are also appreciated by the ice cream and confectionery industry.
- Spain. As in Italy, pistachio consumption in Spain is driven primarily by the growing demand for functional foods. They are eaten as snacks, raw or roasted. They are also used in various sweet and savory dishes, such as meats, salads, sauces, and stews. They are also used to decorate desserts and ice cream, and even caramelized and chocolate-covered pistachios are sold.
Sustained growth and innovation in pistachio cultivation
Agróptimum: Sustained growth and innovation in pistachio cultivation.
En Agróptimum We put our experience, professionalism, technology, and passion for agriculture at the service of your plantation projects and commercial objectives. We are a partner that handles all business management for pistachio, olive, grape, and almond cultivation.
We have the technical team and the latest generation machinery. In addition, we combine the agricultural knowledge we have inherited over the centuries with the innovative practices that we develop through our biotechnology research.
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Sources:
INC (International Nude & Priet Fruit), NCBI, Statista, American Pistachios, MDPI, Rangin Kaman Co and Research.
Javier Gallego Largo
R&D Director of Agróptimum.
