Meriç peanut is a type of peanut grown in the Meriç district of Edirne province, Türkiye. Belonging to the Arachis hypogaea species of the Fabaceae (Legume) family, this plant has been registered as a designation of origin under the Industrial Property Law No. 6769. The registration process was initiated by the Meriç Chamber of Agriculture with an application on April 28, 2017, and was approved on September 29, 2022. The product is produced within the geographical boundaries of the Meriç district, particularly in areas located along the northwest and northern borders of the Meriç River.
Product Description and Characteristics
Meriç peanut is characterized by its small seed structure, thin and reddish seed coat, and easily breakable thin shell. It is suitable for snack consumption and is also utilized in the oil industry. The weight of a thousand seeds ranges between 532-586 grams, with the product containing 45–60% oil, 20–30% protein, 7.13–9.78% moisture, 2.29–2.41% ash, and 3.91–9.75% cellulose. The harvest period spans from the first week of October to the last week of November, with a yield of 550-650 kg per decare.
Geographical and Climatic Conditions
Meriç peanut is grown in alluvial, loose, sandy-loamy soils with a low groundwater level, influenced by the Meriç River. Due to the short summer season in the region, it is planted only as a primary crop. The plant’s development period is 120-140 days, with an optimal temperature of 22-28°C and annual rainfall of 500–600 mm/m². Secondary planting is not preferred, as the necessary temperature and water for maturation cannot be provided.
Production Process
The production process begins with planting Meriç Peanut in the first two weeks of May using specialized machines at a depth of 6–7 cm. The planting is done in sandy soils without soil-breaking procedures, with a row spacing of 70 cm and a plant-to-plant distance of 15 cm. Irrigation is provided through natural rainfall, supplemented by sprinkler or drip systems, and water from the Meriç River is used when necessary. The plant, with a maturation period of 150-160 days, is harvested from the first week of October to the last week of November. During harvest, the peanuts are extracted from the soil using harvesting tools, separated from stems and leaves with a harvesting machine, and then dried in the open air under the sun for approximately one week until the outer shell turns white and the inner coat darkens. The dried peanuts are roasted for 25-30 minutes in machines provided by the Meriç Chamber of Agriculture and are packaged for retail in 0.5, 1, 2, or 5 kg packages, while wholesale is done in 25-30 kg sacks. The sacks are stacked up to five high and stored in a dark, sun-free environment at 20°C.
Usage and Identification
The product or its packaging bears the “Meriç Yer Fıstığı” designation along with the registration logo and the designation of origin emblem. If this is not feasible, the designation is displayed visibly at the business premises. The product is identified through paste and oil analyses obtained from processing solidified vegetable oils.
Inspection and Protection
Inspections are conducted annually by a team of three experts, coordinated by the Meriç Chamber of Agriculture, consisting of representatives from the Meriç District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry and Meriç Municipality. Additional inspections are carried out in case of complaints or as needed. The inspection covers compliance with production methods, adherence of product characteristics to standards, and the correct use of the logo and emblem. The registrant manages legal processes to protect these rights.
The cultivation, growing, harvesting, roasting, packaging, and storage processes of Meriç Peanut are meticulously monitored. The product gains its unique qualities thanks to the natural advantages provided by the Meriç River and the region’s climatic characteristics.
