Marmaris Peanut is a traditional peanut cultivated in the Marmaris district of Muğla, belonging to the species Arachis hypogaea L. It is consumed either raw in-shell or as a dried snack. This legume is an annual plant that grows in warm climates and is classified among oilseed crops in Türkiye. The hard-shelled fruits contain 50–60% oil. The well-drained, loose-textured, sandy-loam, reddish terra-rosa soils of Marmaris favor seed set, resulting in large peanuts with a pinkish hue. Seed dimensions range from 17–27 mm in length and 9–12 mm in width.
History and Registration
The geographical indication for Marmaris Peanut was applied for by the Marmaris Municipality on December 16, 2021 and officially registered as Geographical Indication No. 1227 by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office on September 21, 2022. The registration, under Law No. 6769, provides protection from December 16, 2021 onwards. The product’s geographical boundary is limited to the Marmaris district of Muğla. According to the registration, the label “Marmaris Peanut” and the geographical origin emblem must be clearly displayed on packaging or within the business.
Cultivation and Production
Peanuts may be planted as a main or second crop; crop rotation is recommended for optimal yield. Planting occurs when soil temperature reaches 15 °C, typically in April, at a seeding rate of 10 kg per decare. Seeds are sown 70 cm apart between rows, 15–25 cm apart within rows, and at a depth of 15–25 cm. Soil ridges are 30–40 cm high to promote strong root development. Soil preparation begins in autumn by plowing 20–25 cm deep and is followed by cultivation in spring. For a second crop, fields are prepared after harvesting the previous crop.
Irrigation is critical and scheduled according to plant water requirements: the first irrigation is one month after planting, the second 40–50 days later, and irrigation is stopped 20 days before harvest. Sprinkler or furrow irrigation is recommended, particularly during fruit development to maintain soil moisture. Fertilization is applied according to soil analysis, providing nitrogen, potassium, and calcium at planting. Weed control is performed by hoeing, which is stopped once peg (ginophore) formation begins.
Harvesting and Processing
Harvest occurs 4–6 months after planting when leaves yellow and the seeds turn pink and enlarge. Harvesting may be done manually or mechanically. Uprooted plants are left in the field for three days to dry upside down. Threshed peanuts are further dried under technical and hygienic conditions until moisture falls below 9%. Mechanical drying may also be applied.
Storage and Inspection
Peanuts are stored in dry, cool, and odor-free conditions. Shelled seeds must not exceed 9% moisture, and kernels must not exceed 7%. Broken or moldy peanuts are separated, and pest control is carried out according to regulations. Inspections are conducted at least once a year under the coordination of Marmaris Municipality, with participation from the Marmaris Chamber of Commerce and the District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry. Additional inspections are conducted if complaints arise.
Characteristics and Usage
Marmaris Peanut is notable for its large size and pinkish hue. The fruit develops underground; flowers self-pollinate, producing seeds via pegs (ginophores). The product is presented to consumers in packaging compliant with food regulations and is protected by geographical indication.
