Mandarin
Turkey is one of the world’s leading producers of mandarins, and the fruit is an essential part of the country’s citrus production and export sector. Turkish mandarins are known for their high quality, sweetness, and ease of peeling, which make them highly sought after both domestically and internationally.
Varieties of Mandarins
Satsuma: One of the most famous mandarin varieties in Turkey, particularly from the İzmir region, Satsuma mandarins are known for their easy peelability, seedless nature, and sweet, delicate flavor. They are primarily grown for export due to their excellent durability and shelf life.
Clementine: Another popular variety in Turkey, Clementines are slightly smaller than Satsumas, with a vibrant orange color, a sweet-tart flavor, and a thin, easy-to-peel skin. They are rich in juice and are popular both for fresh consumption and juicing.
King Mandarin (King Citrus): Larger than Satsumas and Clementines, King mandarins have a bumpy skin and are prized for their robust flavor and juiciness. They are often consumed fresh and used in local cuisine.
Nova: Nova mandarins are a hybrid variety known for their high juice content, deep orange color, and relatively few seeds. They are favored in both domestic markets and for export.
Market
Many Turkish mandarin producers adhere to GlobalGAP standards, ensuring that the fruit is grown following good agricultural practices, with a focus on sustainability, food safety, and worker welfare. These certifications are essential for export, especially to markets in Europe and North America. Turkey is a major exporter of mandarins, particularly to markets in Europe, Russia, and the Middle East. Satsuma mandarins are especially popular in European markets due to their seedless nature and long shelf life. Turkish mandarins are known for their high sugar content, bright color, and ease of peeling, making them highly competitive in the global market.