"Dubai chocolate", a tablet filled with pistachio cream and kadaif paste, has become a viral phenomenon on social networks such as TikTok, where it has accumulated millions of views. Its popularity has transcended the screen and translated into remarkable commercial success in supermarkets, where its presence marks what many consider the beginning of a new era for Spanish pistachio in the food industry.
The appeal of pistachios goes beyond their taste. Juan Gallego, founder and director of the IberoPistacho Group, told Efeagro that its incorporation into products such as creams, cakes, and chocolates reflects a growing trend of diversifying its use. "This is just the tip of the iceberg," stated the businessman, who eight years ago detected this potential in markets such as Turkey and Iran, where dried nuts are used in products as varied as nougat, sausages, pastas, juices, infusions, and even cosmetics.
This commercial expansion coincides with an increase in pistachio cultivation in Spain, driven in part by the search for more drought-resistant crops. Pistachio, with low water needs, is emerging as a viable alternative to other more resource-demanding crops.
Gallego highlighted that the current supply does not cover demand. According to forecasts, this could go on until 2040, which offers the sector ample room for growth. In addition, he expects that greater availability will reduce the consumer price, as pistachios are currently among the most expensive nuts.
According to Mario González, technical director of the specialized portal PistachoPro, Spain's pistachio sector is still maturing. González acknowledges that the product is booming, but warns that supply is fragmented and that there is still no large unified commercial structure or a consolidated "Spain brand" for pistachio.
Pistachio also stands out as a profitable investment. According to Angel Minaya, general director of Agroptimum, the crop can generate a profit of more than 10,000 euros per hectare, far surpassing other traditional crops, both in rainfed and irrigated areas.
Over the last decade, pistachio cultivation in Spain has skyrocketed, increasing thirtyfold and reaching 80,000 hectares, which positions the country as a future European leader in production.
Source: efeagro.com