Pistachio Production Problems

Abstract

The production, processing, and marketing of pistachio nuts is one of California's newest and most rapidly growing agricultural industries. From less than 300 acres in 1968, rapid expansion occurred during the 1970s to over 43,000 acres (28,000 bearing; 15,000 nonbearing) in 1982. Of the deciduous tree fruit and nut acreage in the state, the pistachio is exceeded only by almond, walnut, prune, and peach. The first commercial crop of significance—4½ million pounds—was harvested in 1977, while in 1982 over 43 million pounds were produced having a value of 61 million dollars. Production is expected to reach 80 million pounds in 1990. The average annual consumption of pistachios in the United States during the past decade has been 22 million pounds, most of which came from Iran and Turkey. Thus, the projected growth of the industry dictated the need for a program of effective domestic and foreign market development and expansion. It also had become apparent that research related to production and post-harvest handling was needed. A referendum of the producers in 1981 established the California Pistachio Commission to raise funds for the support of research and marketing activities, as well as to direct other industry functions.