Wild Afghan Pistachios

Pistachios "Wild Afghan"
Selected Kernel – Origin Afghanistan
An exclusive selection of pistachios from wild trees in Afghanistan, intended for professionals seeking ingredients of absolute excellence for their gourmet creations.
Product Identification
Botanical Name
Pistacia vera L.
Category
Premium Product – Special Selection
Intended Use
Food ingredient for high-end B2B applications
Wild Afghan pistachios represent a unique offering in the premium ingredient landscape. The commercial name reflects the authenticity of a product that originates from trees grown spontaneously or semi-wild in Afghanistan's pistachio-growing regions. The shelled kernel type was chosen to offer maximum versatility to food industry professionals.
This product clearly distinguishes itself from standard market commodities due to its non-industrial origin and distinctive organoleptic characteristics. Aimed at B2B clients operating in the premium segment, Wild Afghan is the ideal ingredient for exclusive lines, limited editions, and high-positioning products that require a pistachio with an unmistakable character and superior quality.
Product Description
The Wild Afghan pistachios come from pistachio-growing areas in Afghanistan where the trees grow spontaneously or semi-wild. This "non-industrial" origin gives the product unique characteristics that make it incomparable to intensively cultivated pistachios.
The distinct aromatic profile is the first element of differentiation: more complex, persistent, and authentic notes that emerge from the natural growth of the trees in a specific terroir. The kernel's structure stands out for its consistency and integrity, making it particularly suitable for gourmet applications where pistachio is the absolute protagonist.
The unique character of this product is difficult to replicate: the combination of environmental, genetic, and semi-wild management factors creates an organoleptic profile that industry professionals immediately recognize as superior.
"A pistachio with a unique character, destined for clients who seek excellence beyond standard commodities."
Distinct Aromatic Profile
Complex and persistent notes derived from spontaneous growth in a specific terroir
Premium Structure
Kernel particularly suitable for high-end gourmet applications
Irreplicable Character
Unique organoleptic profile, not replicable with intensive cultivation
Origin and Traceability
Afghanistan represents one of the historical cradles of global pistachio cultivation, with areas where Pistacia vera still grows spontaneously or semi-wild. Our Wild Afghan pistachios come from selected pistachio-growing areas, mainly concentrated in provinces characterized by the significant presence of these native trees. The harvest season, which typically runs from July to September, coincides with the optimal ripening time of the fruits.
01
Manual Harvesting
Careful selection of ripe fruits from spontaneous trees
02
Drying
Controlled process at affiliated facilities
03
Shelling
Primary processing in certified structures
04
Premium Selection
Evaluation for caliber, color, and kernel integrity
05
Full Traceability
Unique code from harvest to shipment
The fragmented nature of the supply chain in Afghanistan makes this selection particularly distinctive and valuable. Access to raw materials occurs through consolidated and time-tested channels, ensuring not only the quality of the final product but also the safety and transparency of the entire supply chain. Each lot is identified by a unique code that allows for complete traceability from the harvesting area to the shipping point, offering B2B customers the documentary guarantee necessary for their compliance and communication needs.
Composition
100%
Pure Pistachios
Pistacia vera L. – Origin Afghanistan
ZERO
Additives
None added – absolute purity
NON-GMO
Guarantee
Does not contain and is not derived from genetically modified organisms
The composition of Wild Afghan pistachios reflects the philosophy of purity and authenticity that characterizes the entire product. They are 100% pistachios, without any added additives, preservatives, or technological aids. This choice ensures that the organoleptic profile of the kernel remains intact and faithful to the original characteristics of the fruit, allowing industry professionals to work with a genuine and transparent ingredient.
The product is also certified as non-GMO, a requirement increasingly sought after by premium markets and consumers attentive to the naturalness of ingredients. Non-GMO certification represents significant added value for brands that wish to communicate transparency and quality to their end customers, particularly relevant in the context of organic, natural products or those intended for markets with high sensitivity to these issues.
Physico-Chemical Characteristics
The physico-chemical characteristics of Wild Afghan pistachios demonstrate the excellence of their selection and processing. The indicative values reported below represent typical product parameters, which are systematically confirmed through laboratory analyses for each batch, ensuring uniformity and predictability in industrial and artisanal applications.
Moisture
2.5–5.0%
Optimal level for prolonged preservation and crunchiness
Kernel Size
10–14 mm
Premium size, selected for high-end applications
Visible Defects
≤ 3–5%
Minimal presence of broken, stained, or darkened kernels
Foreign Bodies
0%
Total absence of materials foreign to the pistachio
Controlling moisture within the 2.5–5.0% range is crucial for preserving the organoleptic quality of the product over time and ensuring the characteristic crunchiness of premium pistachios. Too high moisture would promote microbial growth and rancidity, while too low moisture could compromise the kernel's structure.
The kernel size, between 10 and 14 mm, places the product in the premium category, suitable for uses where the size and visual appearance of the pistachio are distinctive elements. Careful selection minimizes the presence of visible defects, with a maximum tolerance of 3-5% which can be contractually defined according to specific customer needs.
Certificate of Analysis
Each lot is accompanied, upon request, by a certificate of analysis with updated results validated by an accredited laboratory.
Organoleptic Characteristics
The organoleptic characteristics are the most distinctive element of Wild Afghan pistachios, making them immediately recognizable and appreciated by industry professionals. The sensory profile of this product is the result of its wild origin, the Afghan terroir, and the accurate selection of the kernels.
Visual Appearance
Whole or predominantly whole kernels, with a limited presence of fragments. The selection prioritizes kernel integrity, ensuring an excellent visual impact in applications where pistachio is a decorative or distinctive element of the finished product.
Intense Color
Intense green with yellowish-green nuances, typical of superior quality pistachios. The chromatic brilliance indicates freshness and proper processing, a fundamental element for premium gelato, pastry, and chocolate making.
Fresh Scent
Clean, fresh, typical of pistachio, with a total absence of rancid or moldy notes. The clean and authentic olfactory profile confirms the quality of the raw material and the proper storage of the product.
Full Flavor
Full, sweet-aromatic, persistent, with a sensory profile suitable for premium uses. The complex taste and aromatic persistence make this pistachio an absolute protagonist in gourmet creations.
The organoleptic profile makes the product particularly suitable for preparations where pistachio is the protagonist and not just a secondary ingredient.
Microbiological Characteristics
Microbiological safety is a fundamental element to guarantee the product's suitability for professional food use. Wild Afghan pistachios undergo rigorous microbiological controls, with limits conforming to good practices for high-quality dried fruit and to the regulations of the destination country. The microbiological control plan is agreed upon with the client's reference laboratory, ensuring alignment with specific regulatory and food safety requirements.
Total Bacterial Count (TBC)
Monitored according to limits agreed with the client and applicable regulations
Yeasts and Molds
Specific control to ensure absence of fungal contamination
Enterobacteria / E. coli
Verification of correct hygienic management during processing and packaging
Salmonella spp.
ABSENT
In the analyzed reference quantity
Listeria monocytogenes
ABSENT
If applicable, in the reference quantity
Critical microbiological parameters for food safety, in particular Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes, are subject to systematic control with the goal of total absence. This guarantee is particularly important for clients operating in regulated markets or who require complete documentation for supplier validation.
The actual values for each lot are reported in the corresponding analytical sheet, provided upon request along with the complete certificate of analysis.
Contaminants
Contaminant control is crucial for a premium B2B ingredient. Wild Afghan pistachios undergo rigorous analytical checks to ensure compliance with the most stringent regulatory limits, including those of European legislation, often an international benchmark.
Mycotoxins
Aflatoxins and other mycotoxins are systematically monitored for compliance with the regulatory standards of the destination country. For Europe, the specific EU Regulation for nuts provides extremely strict limits. Their control is fundamental given the nature of the product and the climatic conditions of origin.
Heavy Metals
Lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic are analyzed according to regulatory limits. Spontaneous growth in non-industrial areas minimizes the risk, but analytical control remains essential for food safety.
Pesticide Residues
Compliant with current regulations, with attention to the maximum residue limits (MRLs) established by European legislation for the EU market. The semi-wild nature of cultivation limits exposure to pesticides, an added value for customers focused on natural ingredients.
Analytical Transparency
Analytical results regarding contaminants can be shared, lot by lot, according to client needs and supplier validation requirements.
Allergens
Allergen management is a critical aspect of food safety and communication to the end consumer. Wild Afghan pistachios naturally contain pistachios, classified as tree nuts, one of the main allergens subject to mandatory labeling requirements under international regulations, including EU Regulation 1169/2011.
Allergens Present
Pistachios (tree nuts)
Main allergen present as an ingredient, subject to mandatory declaration and highlighting on the label
Cross-Contamination
Other tree nuts, peanuts, sesame
Depending on the processing facility, the product may come into contact with other allergens. Specific lot-by-lot verification available upon request.
The allergen declaration must be adapted to the production reality of the processing and packaging plant used for each lot. For this reason, we provide comprehensive documentary support to allow B2B customers to prepare accurate allergen declarations compliant with the regulations applicable in the destination market.
Example Allergen Statement
Contains: pistachios. May contain traces of: other tree nuts, peanuts, sesame and their derivatives.
(To be adapted according to the specific production reality and local regulations)
Indicative Nutritional Values
Nutritional values represent an important informational element for B2B clients who need to prepare nutritional labels for finished products. The data below are typical average values for high-quality pistachios, based on scientific literature data and consolidated nutritional databases. It is recommended, however, to confirm these values through specific nutritional analyses if they are to be used in regulated labeling.
Energy Value
560-620 kcal per 100g
High caloric content due to the significant presence of high-quality fats
Quality Fats
45-55g per 100g
Predominantly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, with low saturated fat content (5-7g)
Vegetable Proteins
18-22g per 100g
Significant protein contribution, ideal for products aimed at consumers attentive to protein intake
Pistachios are naturally rich in fiber (8-12g per 100g), a nutritional element of growing interest for consumers focused on digestive health. The salt content is naturally very low (< 0.1g), as the product does not involve added sodium, making it suitable for formulations for low-sodium diets or "no salt added" products.
Packaging
The packaging of Wild Afghan pistachios is designed to preserve the organoleptic characteristics of the product during transport and storage, while ensuring flexibility in quantities and supply methods to adapt to the diverse needs of professional clients.
Standard Formats
Kernels packaged in industrial sacks or bags of 10 kg, 12.5 kg, or 20 kg, made of food-grade and resistant material. Dimensions can be customized according to specific client needs and order volumes.
Premium Packaging
Possibility of vacuum packaging or modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) upon request, particularly suitable for premium projects requiring extended shelf life and maximum preservation of organoleptic characteristics.
External Packaging
Palletization compliant with international transport standards, with complete protection against humidity, light, and contamination during all phases of handling, storage, and international transport.
Minimum Labeling
Each package includes essential information for product traceability and proper management:
Product name: "Wild Afghan Pistachios – kernels"
Net weight and Country of origin (Afghanistan)
Lot number and packaging date
Expiration date / BBD and storage conditions
Allergen information, if required by local regulations
Storage and Shelf Life
Optimal Storage Conditions
The correct storage of Wild Afghan pistachios is essential to preserve their qualitative characteristics over time. The product must be stored in a cool and dry place, away from heat sources, humidity, and foreign odors that could compromise its organoleptic profile.
The preferred storage temperature is below 20°C, avoiding temperature fluctuations that could lead to condensation inside the packaging. Humid environments must be absolutely avoided, as well as direct exposure to sunlight or intense light sources.
Packages must be kept closed when not in use, to minimize exposure to atmospheric oxygen and environmental humidity. Correct stock rotation according to the FIFO (First In, First Out) principle helps ensure the product is used within optimal times.
Shelf Life
12-18 months from the packaging date, if stored correctly according to the specified conditions
1
Packaging
Start date of shelf life
2
6 Months
Optimal quality
3
12 Months
Standard
4
18 Months
MAP/Vacuum sealed
The indicative shelf life of 12-18 months from the packaging date may vary depending on the packaging conditions adopted. Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) or vacuum packaging allows for extending the product's duration towards the upper limit of the range, while maintaining unchanged organoleptic characteristics. The expiration date or minimum durability date (TMC) is reported on the label of each batch, calculated based on the specific packaging conditions used.
Documentation and Certifications
Document transparency is a fundamental element in the relationship with professional B2B clients. For each batch of Wild Afghan pistachios, we are able to provide a complete package of technical documentation and certifications, customizable according to the specific needs of the client and the destination market.
Certificate of Analysis
Documents the results of physical-chemical, microbiological, and contaminant analyses, performed by qualified laboratories
Phytosanitary Certificate
Required for export, certifies the absence of pests and plant pathogens according to international regulations
Certificate of Origin
Officially documents the product's origin from Afghanistan, relevant for customs duties and commercial communication
Available Certifications
Depending on the specific needs of the client and the destination market, additional certifications can be provided:
HALAL Certification for predominantly Muslim markets
Quality system certifications (e.g., ISO 22000, FSSC 22000) at the plant level
Specific food safety certifications for the destination market
Documentation related to environmental management systems or sustainability, if requested
HACCP System
The product is managed within a food safety system based on HACCP, with identification and control of critical points throughout the processing and packaging chain.
Further plant-level certifications can be specified on a case-by-case basis, depending on the facility used for processing the specific batch and the client's documentary needs.
How to Use
Wild Afghan pistachios are specifically designed for professional applications where the added value of the pistachio is visible and perceived by the end consumer. It is not a commodity ingredient destined to disappear in complex formulations, but a distinctive element that characterizes and enhances the finished product.
Artisan Pastry and Ice Cream
Ideal for creams, mousses, artisan ice creams, and high-level semifreddos where the intense green color and full flavor of Wild Afghan pistachios create a memorable sensory experience.
Premium Chocolate and Pralines
Perfect for praline fillings, gourmet chocolate bars, premium spreads where the quality of the pistachio makes a difference in the final taste profile.
Gourmet Bakery and Baked Goods
Excellent for high-end baked goods, filled croissants, special leavened products, artisan biscuits where the pistachio is a visual and gustatory protagonist.
Premium Toppings and Decorations
Where color, texture, and integrity of the kernel are decisive elements for the visual impact and perceived quality of the finished product.
Snacks and Signature Mixes
For brands that want to distinguish themselves from standard products through authentic, traceable ingredients with a superior organoleptic profile.
"Wild Afghan pistachios transform an ingredient into a distinctive element, bestowing uniqueness and perceived value upon the products that contain them."
Warnings
Professional Use Only
Product intended exclusively for professional users: food industries, artisan laboratories, HoReCa channel operators (Hotel, Restaurant, Catering), specialized packers. Not intended for direct sale to the final consumer in the form supplied.
Packaging Integrity
Do not use the product if the packaging is damaged, open, or tampered with. Intact packaging guarantees that the product has been stored and transported correctly, without exposure to contamination, humidity, or other factors that could compromise its quality and safety.
Regulatory Compliance
It is the buyer's responsibility to always verify compliance with local regulations of the destination country regarding import, food safety, allergen management, nutritional labeling, and claims. Regulations vary significantly between different markets and are subject to frequent updates.
The use of this product in a professional setting requires specific skills in food safety management, ingredient traceability, and correct communication to the final consumer. Professional operators are required to implement self-control systems based on HACCP principles and to ensure correct labeling of finished products according to applicable regulations.
For any doubts regarding the suitability of the product for specific applications, storage methods, necessary documentation for import, or regulatory aspects, our technical-commercial team is available to provide qualified support and personalized assistance.
Document drafted for informational purposes for B2B professional clients. The information contained is based on the best knowledge available at the time of drafting and may be subject to change. For updated information and batch-specific details, please contact the commercial service.