Karamürsel Samanlı Olive is a native, table olive variety grown in Samanlı Neighborhood and its vicinity, located in Karamürsel district of Kocaeli province, in the northwest of the Marmara Region. As a result of the combination of its physical structure, climate and soil conditions, and traditional processing methods, this olive variety has acquired unique morphological and sensory characteristics. This olive type, which is medium-sized, has a high flesh-to-pit ratio, thin skin, is aromatic, and has a small pit, holds a significant place in terms of both traditional consumption and gastronomy.

^{Karamürsel Samanlı Olive (Generated by Artificial Intelligence.)}

Botanical and Morphological Characteristics

Karamürsel Samanlı Olive belongs to a local variety that has genetically developed in the northwest of Anatolia. Its trees typically have wide crowns, are medium-sized, and have a spreading form.

Leaves: It has narrow, long, and silvery-green leaves.

Flowering: Begins in May; it has a dioecious flower structure.

Fruit: Turns from green to purple and black as it ripens; the flesh is sweet, slightly fruity, and aromatic.

Pit: Proportionally small, oval, and smooth-surfaced.

Oil Content: Varies between 18–20%; this ratio is considered high for table olives.

Agroecological Conditions

The characteristic features of Karamürsel Samanlı Olive are directly related to the region's microclimatic structure. Orchards established on the Samanlı slopes facing the Sea of Marmara provide humid and mild climate conditions and wind circulation throughout the year.

Altitude: Varies between 150–400 meters.

Soil Structure: Clay-loamy, well-drained, and organic matter-rich soils are preferred.

Climate: Summers are hot but humid due to the sea's influence, while winters are mild; this leads to an increase in fruit flesh thickness.

Irrigation: Traditionally, dry farming is practiced, but in recent years, drip irrigation systems have increased productivity.

Harvest and Processing Chain

Harvesting Process

Karamürsel Samanlı Olives are generally harvested from mid-October to late November, during their peak ripeness. During harvest:

Manual picking or pole shaking methods are applied.
Fruits are collected with nets before falling to the ground, reducing the risk of crushing.
Workers with traditional knowledge are preferred to avoid damaging the trees.

Curing and Processing

After harvest, olives are cured using the dry-salting method (rubbed with salt). This method:

Is based on natural fermentation without the use of chemicals.
Involves a maturation process that typically lasts 3–5 weeks.
Increases the product's shelf life and preserves its nutritional value.

Although "scratched" (çizik) and "crushed" (kırma) methods are also applied as alternatives, the dry-salting method is primarily defined for the registered product.

Traditional Knowledge System and Cultural Value

Producers in Samanlı Neighborhood and its surroundings continue olive cultivation using methods passed down from generation to generation. Olive trees, referred to as "ancestor trees," many of which are over 100 years old, are regarded not only as agricultural but also as cultural assets. In the region, olive trees are not cut down; they are pruned only once a year, and "tree resting" is practiced according to the crop yield. Women processing and marketing olives in their home gardens to contribute to the household economy is also part of this cultural system. Furthermore, harvest festivals and village festivals organized by the local community every autumn support the cultural continuity of olive cultivation.

^{Karamürsel Samanlı Olive (Generated by Artificial Intelligence)}

Socioeconomic Impact and Sustainability

Karamürsel Samanlı Olive is an important source of livelihood for the regional economy, especially for small-scale producers. The product's market value has increased after geographical indication registration; it has started to become recognized in foreign markets. In addition:

Cooperative initiatives have gained momentum.
Olive-based agro-tourism activities are being planned.
The genetic material of the species has been preserved in gene banks.

In terms of sustainability, this production model, based on local seeds, local knowledge, and local climate components, is also important for food sovereignty and the conservation of biological diversity.

Geographical Indication and Legal Protection

An application for geographical indication registration of Karamürsel Samanlı Olive was made by the Karamürsel District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry. The application was filed with number C2021/023 on 21.01.2021. Following the evaluation process, the product was officially registered as a "Designation of Origin" with registration number 1622 on 05.08.2024. It is registered at 4 Temmuz Mah. Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bul. 41500 Karamürsel, Kocaeli.

Karamürsel Samanlı Olive