-November 18,2023-
Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, in Tulare County, the nation’s second-largest pistachio grower and processor, has expanded their line of premium pistachios by opening a fully dedicated USDA organic-certified facility, Setton Organic, LLC. Located in Ducor, California just five miles south of the main processing plant, Setton’s products will now include SKUs in the rapidly growing organic category, with retail and bulk lines offering both roasted and raw in-shell and kernel pistachios.
“Our philosophy of expanding thoughtfully and sustainably drives all our efforts,” said Setton Farms COO Mia Cohen. “Offering the world our nutrient-dense organic pistachios is simply the next step in this process.”
Growing premium quality, organic pistachios begin in Setton Farms’ orchard. Natural repellants mitigate crop damage while the soil is fortified with compost from the pistachio hulls, leaves, and branches sorted out during harvest. All equipment and silos are certified for use by CCOF, granting Setton’s products the official USDA organic seal.
Setton’s processing method, known for exceeding industry quality standards, utilizes three sorting techniques and a proprietary pasteurization system. A.I. driven inspection, sampling, and automated packing streamline the process from start to finish. This technologically advanced 45,000 square foot operating facility is equipped with four retail packaging lines and three bulk packaging lines, which will offer both roasted and raw in-shell and kernel pistachios. The certified organic classic roasted salted variety is available now in a 7-ounce resealable bag. A versatile new display ships preloaded and can hang from a quarter pallet bin or stand upright on the provided base.
Big crop this year
This year’s pistachio crop will be another record estimated at 1.5 billion pounds. The largest crop to date was several years ago at 1.16 billion pounds The trade group American Pistachio Growers recently suggested that it could grow to 2 billion pounds by 2031. Among some growers, the prediction is spurring fears of over planting and potentially hurting prices.
Processors are offering every kind of flavored nut to stimulate demand.