Hazelnuts

What are Hazelnuts?

Hazelnuts are the round, edible nuts of the Corylus avellana tree, primarily grown in temperate climates. With a distinct, slightly sweet taste and smooth texture, they are highly versatile, lending themselves to both savory and sweet dishes. Hazelnut suppliers work across diverse industries to bring this prized nut to markets worldwide, meeting the demands of confectioners, food manufacturers, and specialty food producers.

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Types, Varieties & Forms of Hazelnut

Hazelnuts are generally sold in a variety of forms, including whole, chopped, blanched, roasted, and ground into meal or paste. While there aren’t distinct varieties like other nuts, the nuts can vary slightly in size and quality depending on the growing region. Roasted and blanched hazelnuts are especially popular in the food industry, as they offer an enhanced flavor profile suitable for a range of applications.

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Hazelnuts are typically graded by size, with measurements indicating the diameter of the kernel in millimeters. Here are the top hazelnut sizes commonly recognized in the industry:

• 9-11 mm: Smaller-sized hazelnuts, often used in applications where whole nuts are not required, such as in nut spreads or finely chopped nut mixes.
• 11-13 mm: A mid-sized grade, suitable for various uses including snacks, baking, and confectionery where a medium size is preferred.
• 13-15 mm: Considered a large size, these hazelnuts are popular in premium products and often appear as whole nuts in high-quality snack mixes or chocolate-covered hazelnuts.
• 15+ mm: Extra-large hazelnuts, typically used in gourmet products or for visual appeal in premium nut assortments.

Harvest Season of Hazelnut

The harvest season for hazelnuts usually spans from August to October, depending on the region. During this period, the nuts naturally fall from the trees and are then collected. This seasonality can affect availability and pricing, as demand for fresh, high-quality hazelnuts typically peaks shortly after the harvest season.

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Producing Countries

Turkey is the world’s leading producer of hazelnuts, accounting for the majority of global supply. Other notable producers include Italy, the United States (particularly Oregon), and Spain. Each region brings distinct qualities to their hazelnuts, often influenced by local climate and growing conditions, which can affect flavor, size, and oil content.

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According to 2022 data, the annual production figures for the top hazelnut-producing countries are as follows:

• Turkey: Approximately 765,000 metric tons, accounting for about 64% of global production.
• Italy: Around 98,670 metric tons, making it the second-largest producer.
• Azerbaijan: Produces about 72,105 metric tons annually.
• United States: Approximately 70,310 metric tons, with production primarily concentrated in Oregon.
• Chile: Produces around 62,600 metric tons each year.
• Georgia: Annual production is about 33,400 metric tons.

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Trends & History

Hazelnuts have been cultivated for centuries, especially in the Mediterranean and Caucasus regions. Recently, hazelnuts have gained further popularity due to their association with popular spreads, chocolates, and dairy alternatives. Additionally, hazelnuts are finding new uses in plant-based diets, where hazelnut milk and meal offer nutritious alternatives. The industry has seen growth in sustainable and organic hazelnut production, addressing the demand for ethically sourced and environmentally friendly products.

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Hazelnut Wholesale

For companies looking to source premium hazelnuts, Nutrada provides an effective platform to connect with reliable hazelnut suppliers, exporters, and wholesalers throughout the world. Whether you need whole nuts, roasted varieties, or hazelnut paste, Nutrada helps you find suppliers who match your quality standards and business requirements. Rely on Nutrada as your go-to resource to secure top-quality hazelnuts for your business needs.