Aronia harvest doubles income in one year; diabetics are waiting

Tunahan Arslan, an agricultural engineer in Kütahya, Turkey, has seen remarkable success with his aronia berry cultivation, nearly doubling his income and harvest in just one year.

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Aronia is a fruit particularly rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Aronia contains all vitamins except D and B12.

Arslan started his venture in 2023, planting 1,400 aronia saplings on 7 decares of land. Last year, he harvested 600 kilograms of berries. This year, he anticipates the yield to surpass one ton, a significant increase attributed to the natural proliferation of the bushes, which have now reached an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 trees on his property.

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Last year I harvested 600 kilograms of product, this year I expect more than one ton of product.

The aronia berries are highly sought after, especially by individuals managing diabetes, cholesterol, and cancer. Arslan highlights the berries' rich antioxidant and vitamin C content, noting they contain all vitamins except D and B12. He emphasizes his commitment to natural farming methods, avoiding pesticides and using natural means to combat pests.

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I expect to sell this year's kilogram at 400 TL.

Last year, Arslan sold his aronia at 300 Turkish Lira per kilogram and expects to sell this year's harvest for 400 Turkish Lira per kilogram. He is keen to expand his production further with state support and is also exploring the cultivation of other crops like salep and saffron.

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I do not use pesticides in my products as I generally sell aronia fruit to patients with sugar, cholesterol, and cancer. I combat pests with natural methods.