Beirut:The Ministry of Agriculture has released a set of guidelines for farmers as the olive harvest season begins across Lebanon. These guidelines are designed to ensure the preservation of olive oil quality and the protection of olive trees for future productivity.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, the ministry emphasized the importance of appropriate harvesting methods and timing, which significantly impact the quantity and quality of olive oil, as well as the health and productivity of the trees.
Key recommendations include starting the harvest when about 50% of the olives have turned from green to purple, which balances oil yield with quality. The ministry advises manual picking, combs, and suitable mechanical equipment, cautioning against the use of sticks that can harm the fruit and damage new branches, potentially affecting future production.
Farmers are also encouraged to handle olives with care to prevent bruising and to avoid mixing freshly harvested olives with those that have fallen to the ground. For transportation, the ministry suggests using ventilated plastic crates instead of bags to prevent heat and moisture accumulation, which can degrade fruit quality.
The guidelines further emphasize the importance of transporting olives to the pressing facility as soon as possible, ideally on the same day of harvest, and not exceeding a delay of 48 hours. Olives should be stored in shaded, well-ventilated areas, spread in layers no deeper than 20 centimeters.
Additionally, the ministry underscores the need for occupational safety during harvesting, advising workers to avoid climbing trees whenever possible. Instead, they should use properly secured ladders or extended-reach harvesting equipment to prevent falls and injuries.
The ministry urged farmers and agricultural workers to adhere to these recommendations, highlighting that proper harvesting practices are crucial for maintaining the quality of Lebanese olive oil, safeguarding olive groves, and ensuring sustainable production for the future.
