Moldova's walnut harvest doubles amid European price rise
Moldovan walnut farmers are reporting a significantly larger harvest this year, thanks largely to investments in high-yield varieties and modern irrigation systems.
In the Telenești district village of Inești, a five-member farmers’ cooperative cultivates walnuts across 160 hectares. The cooperative built a processing unit to dry, crack, select the kernels, and package them for sale.
Lilian Florea, the commercial director, attributes the success to escaping spring frosts. "The harvest is twice as large as last year, possibly more," he said.
The majority of the crop is sold on the domestic market, supplied to supermarket chains and food producers. While there are exports, Mr Florea notes that most sales are domestic. He estimates that prices in Europe for the best kernels, which sold for €2.50–€2.80 last year, could rise by 10-15% this year.
Mr Florea believes walnut cultivation can be a profitable business, provided growers adhere to modern technology and, crucially, ensure proper irrigation. The cooperative's foundation was financed by a $300,000 World Bank grant, supplemented by member loans. They have since received subsequent subsidies from the Ministry of Agriculture via the AIPA agency, alongside beneficial loans through the national 'Orchard of Moldova' programme.
Walnuts: Nutritional benefits and risks
Walnuts constitute a food product with beneficial effects on consumers suffering from cardiovascular diseases, cancer, or diabetes mellitus. The omega-3 fats they contain help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol in the blood. This contributes to maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system and a significant reduction in the risk of developing heart disease or suffering a stroke.
Walnuts also contain vitamins E and A, which are beneficial for healthy, radiant skin. Furthermore, consumption stimulates melatonin production, the hormone that ensures deep and restful sleep.
Specialists warn, however, that walnuts are a calorie-dense food and must be consumed in moderation, and are not recommended for allergy sufferers.
The Republic of Moldova is in a favourable region for walnut cultivation, a rarity globally, as only 7% of the planet’s surface is suitable for the crop.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
