tags: our process, cultivation, processing, selection,

Our Process

CULTIVATION

Most pecan cultivars start bearing around their fifth year after planting and reach maturity around twelve to fifteen years. The fruit begin to ripen from mid April and gets harvested mechanically during May and June. The physical characteristics of the pecans of the various cultivars are different and therefore need to be harvested separately. Separate harvesting is important to ensure a homogeneous end product.

PROCESSING

When the harvest arrives at the processing plant of Ghaapseberg Foods, different batches of the respective cultivars are weighed in and statistically representative samples are taken. Samples undergo strict grading and hygrometric testing in the laboratory. The harvest then goes to the popping plant where all extraneous materials and inedible in-shell nuts are disposed. The in-shell nuts are then classified in different sizes before they are mechanically cracked and shelled.

SELECTION

Currently all selection takes place by hand, which ensures a premium quality product. As volumes are expected to increase in the near future, electronic selection will be implemented, without compromising quality.

PACKAGING

At Ghaapseberg Foods, packaging is not just the final step of processing. All our pecans are vacuum packed in an atmospheric environment to prolong freshness. During the vacuuming process, packaging is inflated with a special Nitrogen gas mixture called Foodfresh 1, which delays the natural oxidation process of the nut and prevents rancidity. After packaging, the pecans are stored in our digitally-controlled cold rooms at optimal temperatures and humidity.

FOOD SERVICE PACKAGING

Ghaapseberg do form-filled vacuum packaging according to client requirements and in the following denominations:

1 kg, 2kg, 5kg, 5.67kg (12.5 lb), 10kg and 11.34kg (25 lb) in Hand Selected pecan halves, Catering Ready pecan halves (choice grade), Kitchen Ready (quarters) and Sprinkle Ready (small pieces).

RETAIL PACKAGING

100g hand selected pecan halves packed in laminated pouch bags, with a Ziploc and Euroslot. This product is ideal for the retail and deli markets.

VISION, QUALITY CONTROL & STANDARDS

Our trademark emphasizes our approach to quality and a supreme product. The aim is to sustain the highest levels of food safety. This endeavour demands an approach which focuses on preventative food safety measures rather than cure, from production level right through processing, selection, packaging, and cold storage up to the point where the product is consumed. This goal is reached not only by implementing recognized Food Safety Standards, but also by making food safety and sanitation a way of life amongst our workforce. Our pecans have been declared HALAAL by the MJC Halaal Trust Cape Town (registration number HT3379).

MARKETING

Ghaapseberg Foods is a registered exporter of fine quality pecans and have conducted business with various multinational companies since establishment. Satisfaction of customers in our outstanding product, together with first-class service and business ethics built on integrity, are the reasons why these companies renew contracts without hesitation, year after year. 

tags: our process, cultivation, processing, selection,