ENG

PRODUCT TECHNICAL SHEET

Qalami Pistachios

Origin Afghanistan

Premium quality pistachios selected for the professional B2B market. A proposal of excellence for the Italian food industry, combining Afghan tradition and high quality standards to meet the most sophisticated needs of the sector.

1. Product Identification

Commercial Name

Qalami Pistachios

Botanical Name

Pistacia vera L.

Category

Pistachios selected for professional food use (B2B)

Available Type

  • Kernel (shelled)
  • Pistachio in shell (on request)

Intended Use

Food ingredient and snack for industry, HoReCa, and professional packaging. Ideal for applications requiring high-quality raw materials and consistent standards.

2. Product Description

The Qalami commercial variety pistachios represent an excellence of the Afghan territory, cultivated and harvested according to traditional practices that guarantee quality and authenticity. This variety stands out for unique characteristics that make it particularly appreciated in the international professional market.

Size and Grade

Regular and uniform dimensions that facilitate industrial processing and ensure consistent results in transformation processes.

Roasting Yield

Excellent performance during roasting and processing, with minimal product loss and maximum organoleptic enhancement.

Kernel Color

Greenish-yellow hue ideal for applications in pastry, ice cream, snacks, and ingredients, maintaining chromatic stability over time.

The product can be supplied in two main formats to meet different production needs: as shelled kernels, ready for immediate industrial use, or as in-shell pistachios, primarily intended for roasting and consumption as a premium snack.

3. Origin and Traceability

Certified Origin

Our Qalami pistachios come from the best pistachio-growing regions of Afghanistan, selected for optimal soil and climate conditions that promote the development of superior quality fruits.

1

Country of Origin

Afghanistan – Selected pistachio-growing provinces

2

Harvest Season

July – September (controlled manual and mechanical harvesting)

3

Primary Processing

Harvesting, natural drying, shelling, and selection in dedicated facilities with modern technologies

4

Traceability System

Each batch identified with a unique code for complete traceability from the origin to the shipping point

Complete traceability ensures the ability to track all phases of the production process, guaranteeing maximum transparency and compliance with international food safety standards.

4. Composition

Ingredients

100% pistachios (Pistacia vera L.)

Pure product, without additions

Additives

None added

Guaranteed naturalness

GMO

Non-GMO product

Does not contain and is not obtained from genetically modified organisms

5. Physical-Chemical Characteristics

The product's physical-chemical parameters are constantly monitored to ensure high quality standards and compliance with agreed specifications. The reported values are indicative and are confirmed with the analysis of each lot.

Moisture

2.5 – 5.0%

Optimal range for storage and processing

Defects

≤ 5%

Broken, stained, or darkened kernels according to agreed specifications

Foreign Bodies

Absent

Stones, plant parts, metals, glass rigorously excluded

Foreign Materials

0%

Target threshold for other plant species

Specific Parameters for In-Shell Product

Percentage of closed nuts: according to customer specifications (target values ≤ 10-15%, to be defined based on needs)

Size: available in different dimensional classes (mm or count per ounce, e.g., 18/20, 20/22) based on the destination market

Detailed analytical values (moisture, defects, foreign bodies) are reported, lot by lot, in the relevant analytical sheet that accompanies each shipment.

6. Organoleptic Characteristics

Kernels

The organoleptic characteristics of Qalami kernels represent a distinctive element of quality, resulting from careful selection and controlled processing methods that preserve the product's natural properties.

Appearance

Whole or predominantly whole kernels, with limited presence of pieces. Clean surface free from significant imperfections, indicating accurate and respectful processing of the product.

Color

Typical green/yellowish-green of quality pistachios, without widespread blackening. Uniform shade that ensures optimal visual impact in final preparations.

Odor

Pleasant and distinctive, typical of fresh pistachios. Complete absence of rancid, moldy, or fermented odors that could compromise product quality.

Taste

Typical, sweet-aromatic with delicate notes. Free from foreign flavors, unpleasant aftertastes, or rancid hints. Clean and persistent taste profile.

In-shell Pistachios

Appearance

Open and/or partially open shells with a natural light beige color, indicative of correct ripening and optimal harvesting time.

Crunchiness/Texture

Crispy texture after roasting, with a characteristic "snap" sound indicating freshness and low moisture content.

Odor and Taste

Identical to the characteristics described for the kernels, typical of healthy and properly stored pistachios.

7. Microbiological Characteristics

The microbiological safety of the product is guaranteed through rigorous controls and compliance with the highest international standards for nuts and oilseeds. Microbiological limits are defined in accordance with current regulations and industry best practices.

01

Total bacterial count (TBC)

Monitoring of the total microbial load according to reference parameters

02

Yeasts and molds

Control of fungal presence according to established limits for the product category

03

Enterobacteria / E. coli

Verification of the absence of fecal contamination and compliance with limit values

04

Salmonella spp.

Absent in the reference quantity tested

05

Listeria monocytogenes

Absent in the reference quantity (if applicable according to regulations)

8. Contaminants

The monitoring of contaminants is a fundamental element of our quality control system. All parameters are verified to ensure full compliance with the most stringent regulations of the destination market, with particular attention to the European market.

Mycotoxins

Aflatoxins and other mycotoxins

Compliant with the legal limits of the destination country. Particular attention is paid to European limits for aflatoxin B1 and total aflatoxins, which are among the most restrictive in the world.

Heavy Metals

Lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic

Within the limits established by applicable legislation, with particular reference to Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 and subsequent amendments.

Pesticide Residues

Multi-residue screening

In compliance with current regulations (e.g., EU MRL limits, if intended for the European market). Multi-residue analysis available upon request.

Each product batch can be accompanied by complete analytical results certifying compliance with legal limits for all relevant contaminants. This documentation is essential for import into regulated markets and can be provided promptly upon client request.

Our commitment to food safety translates into preventive and systematic controls that minimize the risk of non-compliance and ensure continuity of supply.

9. Allergens

Present Allergens

Pistachios – Tree nuts

Belongs to the list of main allergens according to Reg. (EU) 1169/2011

Potential Cross-Contamination

The product may be processed or packaged in facilities that handle other tree nuts, peanuts, sesame seeds and other allergens

Example wording for labeling:

"Contains pistachios. May contain traces of other tree nuts, peanuts, sesame, and their derivatives."

(To be adapted to the actual situation of the processing plant)

It is essential that professional users carefully evaluate allergen management in their production processes, implementing adequate cleaning and segregation procedures when necessary. The correct communication of allergens throughout the supply chain is a legal requirement and represents an essential element for the protection of final consumers.

To ensure maximum transparency, we are available to provide specific allergen declarations relating to the processing facilities involved in the production of each batch.

10. Indicative Nutritional Values

Qalami pistachios are an excellent source of essential nutrients, with a balanced nutritional profile that makes them a valuable ingredient for health-oriented formulations and the premium snack sector.

Per 100 g of product*

*Typical average values for pistachios; specific analysis is recommended for label declarations compliant with Regulation (EU) 1169/2011

*RI = Reference Intakes for an average adult (8400 kJ / 2000 kcal)

Beneficial Fats

Rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, beneficial for cardiovascular health

High Protein Content

Plant-based source of quality protein, ideal for products aimed at athletes and health-conscious consumers

Rich in Fiber

Contribute to intestinal well-being and increase satiety

11. Packaging

The packaging of Qalami pistachios is designed to ensure maximum product protection during transport and storage, preserving its organoleptic characteristics and food safety. We offer various packaging solutions to meet the specific needs of each customer and application.

Standard formats for kernels

  • Industrial sacks or bags of 10 kg, 12.5 kg, 20 kg
  • Certified food-contact safe material
  • Vacuum or Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) option available upon request
  • Hermetic sealing for maximum preservation

Standard formats for in-shell pistachios

  • Sacks of 20 kg, 25 kg
  • Jute or polypropylene material
  • Protective inner liner when required
  • Mechanical resistance for international transport

Outer packaging and logistics

Palletization: Compliant with international transport standards (EUR, EPAL), with stretch film for stability

Protection: Protection systems against crushing, humidity, external contamination, and damage during handling

Optimization: Pallet configuration designed to maximize container load efficiency and reduce logistics costs

Minimum labeling on packages/sacks

Each packaging unit displays the following essential information for product traceability and management:

  • Product name (Qalami Pistachios)
  • Form (kernel/in-shell)
  • Net weight
  • Country of origin (Afghanistan)
  • Unique lot number
  • Production/packaging date
  • Expiration date/Best Before Date
  • Storage conditions
  • Allergen information
  • International identification codes
  • Manufacturer/packager information

12. Storage and Shelf Life

The correct storage of Qalami pistachios is crucial to maintain their quality characteristics and ensure the maximum shelf life of the product. Storage conditions directly influence the preservation of organoleptic, nutritional, and safety properties.

Optimal Storage Conditions

Temperature

Store in a cool place, preferably < 20°C

Avoid exposure to direct heat sources

Humidity

Dry and ventilated environment with controlled relative humidity

Avoid condensation and sudden temperature changes

Light

Protect from direct sunlight

Store away from intense light sources

Odors

Store away from products with strong odors

Keep bags/packages closed when not in use

Indicative Shelf Life

12-18

Months

Duration from packaging date if stored correctly

The actual expiration date or BBD (Best Before Date) is indicated on the label of each batch and may vary depending on the type of packaging used.

Special packaging such as vacuum packing or modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) can significantly extend the product's shelf life, maintaining freshness and crispness.

Important recommendation: To ensure maximum quality, it is advisable to apply the FIFO (First In, First Out) principle in stock rotation and to periodically check storage conditions.

13. Documentation and Certifications

To ensure maximum transparency and regulatory compliance, we provide a complete package of technical documentation and certifications for each product lot. This documentation supports our customers in import, marketing, and product use activities.

Certificate of Analysis

Complete chemical-physical parameters, microbiological results, contaminant analysis (mycotoxins, heavy metals, pesticide residues) performed by accredited laboratories

Phytosanitary Certificate

Official document required for export, certifying the phytosanitary compliance of the product according to international IPPC regulations

Certificate of Origin

Document certifying the Afghan origin of the product, necessary for customs procedures and to benefit from any preferential trade agreements

Additional Certifications Available

Depending on the production facility and specific customer requests, further certifications can be provided:

HALAL

Certification for markets requiring compliance with Islamic principles

Organic

Organic certification according to international standards (if available)

System Certifications

HACCP, ISO 22000, BRC, IFS or equivalent

All documentation is provided in digital and/or hard copy format according to customer needs, with rapid delivery times to facilitate customs clearance and marketing operations.

15. Warnings

Intended Use

Product intended exclusively for professional users within the food industry and catering. It is not a product packaged for sale to the final consumer.

1

Integrity Check

Do not use the product if the packaging is damaged, tampered with, or shows signs of deterioration. In case of doubts about the integrity of the packaging, immediately contact the supplier.

2

Regulatory Compliance

It is the responsibility of the importer and the user to verify the product's compliance with local regulations in force in the country of destination, with particular reference to: import requirements, food safety, allergen management, mandatory labeling.

3

Allergen Management

As pistachios are a major allergen, it is essential to implement adequate procedures for managing the risk of cross-contamination within your production processes.

4

Storage Conditions

Adherence to the storage conditions indicated in this technical data sheet is essential to maintain product quality and the validity of the declared shelf life.

Technical and Commercial Support

For any additional information, technical clarifications, sample requests, or specific documentation, our team is fully available to support professional clients.

We are ready to assist in evaluating product characteristics, verifying regulatory compliance, and optimizing the use of Qalami pistachios in your production applications.

Qalami Pistachios – Afghan Quality for Italian Excellence

The perfect combination of tradition, quality, and food safety for B2B professionals

Made with