Israel: 60,000 tons of pomegranate expected this year

60 thousand tons of pomegranates are expected to be harvested this year, as compared to 50 thousand tons last year. With advanced new storage methods there is an extension of four months in the cooling period and the fruit retains its flavour, freshness and health values.

Agriculture Ministry data shows that the fruit is currently being sold in retail chains and greengrocers for 12 shekels a kilo, compared to 10.5 shekel per kg. for the same period last year.

60% of the fruit is be marketed in Israel and the remaining 40% will be exported. In 2011 20 thousand tons were exported to Russia, Western Europe and the Far East. If the export program goes as planned this year, pomegranate growers will export around 24 thousand tons.

Pomegranate cultivation in Israel grew over the last ten years from 500 hectares to 2500 hectares. The demand for this fruit in the country, as well as export destinations, has grown tremendously due to the health and nutritional qualities. In the next 3 weeks, it is expected 6,000 tons will be sold.

Pomegranate is grown in all regions of the country. The best areas are the cooler regions, because cultivation in the hot areas does not deliver the desirable red colour, but a yellowish brown colour instead.

The pomegranate has, in recent years, taken on the status of a wonder fruit. It contains large amounts of antioxidants, which help prevent atherosclerosis, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and stroke. There have also been claims that it helps to slow down the natural ageing process.

For more information:
Ari Goren
Mob: +972 54 5722038
[email protected]