Israeli Kiwi Hits Shelves Early, Plant Council Advises Consumers to Wait Until October

The Israeli Plant Council has issued a warning regarding the early marketing of the Israeli kiwi variety "Hayward," which is currently being sold in an unripe state. The council recommends consumers wait until early October when the kiwi reaches proper ripeness. They have contacted local growers urging them to halt premature sales, emphasizing that early marketing harms consumers and honest farmers alike.

The kiwi harvest in Israel typically begins in October after mandatory quality checks confirm the fruit is suitable for consumption. The two main kiwi varieties grown in Israel are Hayward, the most common round type, and Bruno, which is elongated and sweeter. The council advises purchasing firm kiwis and allowing them to soften at room temperature before eating.

Kiwi cultivation is a significant part of the northern Israeli economy, primarily in the Galilee and Golan regions. Annual production reaches about 10,000 tons across roughly 3,200 dunams, all sold domestically. Israeli kiwis are noted for being nearly pest-free and grown without pesticides. The fruit is low in calories, rich in vitamins, and beneficial for bone health and digestion.

The Plant Council, established in 2004, works alongside the Ministry of Agriculture and growers' organizations to oversee agricultural sectors including fruits, vegetables, citrus, and olives. It includes representatives from growers, government, marketers, exporters, and consumers.