Hazelnut Supply Chain Risks & How to Manage Them
Hazelnut sourcing involves a complex network of growers, processors, exporters and logistics providers. For buyers, understanding the risks—climatic, quality-related, geopolitical, regulatory and logistical—is essential to maintaining stable supply, predictable pricing and consistent product performance. This guide provides a structured overview of the most significant supply chain challenges and how professional buyers mitigate them.
1. Climatic & agricultural risks
Hazelnut production is highly sensitive to weather patterns, especially during the flowering, pollination and pre-harvest periods. The main climatic risks include:
- Frost damage during early spring reduces yield and kernel quality.
- Excessive rainfall near harvest increases moisture and mould risk.
- Drought conditions affect kernel fill, oil content and size calibration.
- Wind storms can cause premature nut drop.
Mitigation strategy: Buyers typically diversify contracts across regions (e.g., Giresun, Ordu, Samsun) and work with suppliers who have multi-source access and harvest monitoring systems.
2. Quality variability & post-harvest risks
Hazelnuts are biological products and naturally subject to variation. Post-harvest handling plays a major role in determining final quality. Key risks include:
- High moisture levels leading to microbial growth or roasting issues.
- Aflatoxin contamination from improper drying or field conditions.
- Foreign matter and shell fragments from poor cracking lines.
- Defects such as shriveled, mouldy or stained kernels.
Mitigation strategy: Work with suppliers using optical sorters, calibrated dryers, controlled storage, and verified aflatoxin testing. Request specification sheets and quality reports with each shipment.
3. Processing & equipment-related risks
Modern hazelnut processing requires precision machinery to maintain consistent quality. Risks arise when suppliers rely on outdated or manual equipment. Common issues include:
- Inconsistent blanching leading to excessive skin retention
- Variable size grading (e.g., mixed 11–13 mm lots)
- Insufficient metal detection or optical sorting
- Poor roasting controls affecting flavor and stability
Mitigation strategy: Audit the supplier’s production line or request detailed machine lists, QC procedures, and photographic documentation of their calibration systems.
4. Logistics & transport risks
Hazelnuts are shipped worldwide by sea in containers, often over long distances. Key logistics risks include:
- Container delays at ports, especially during peak seasons
- Temperature fluctuations affecting product stability
- Humidity exposure causing mould or rancidity risk
- Customs clearance delays affecting shelf life timing
Mitigation strategy: Suppliers must use proper palletization, moisture protection (liner bags, desiccants), and coordinate loadings through experienced freight forwarders. Tracking and update protocols reduce uncertainty.
5. Geopolitical & regulatory risks
International food supply chains may be disrupted by regulation changes, tariffs, sanctions, or new documentation requirements. For hazelnuts, typical risks include:
- Sudden changes in phytosanitary or aflatoxin regulations
- Export policy adjustments in producing countries
- Import restrictions or new certificate requirements
- Currency fluctuations affecting contract pricing
Mitigation strategy: Suppliers who maintain up-to-date regulatory knowledge and offer flexible contract terms help buyers remain compliant and minimize exposure.
6. Market volatility & pricing risks
Hazelnut markets are known for seasonal volatility due to:
- Weather-driven harvest forecasts
- Global consumption trends
- Currency movements (TRY/USD/EUR)
- Speculative buying or stock-holding
Mitigation strategy: Buyers typically structure staggered contracts, negotiate fixed-price windows, or diversify purchasing across formats and harvest periods.
7. Supplier reliability & communication risks
Even with strong materials and machinery, supplier communication can make or break a sourcing partnership. Common risks include:
- Delays in responding to QA questions or documentation needs
- Unclear communication about delays or quality deviations
- Insufficient transparency during shipment preparation
Mitigation strategy: Evaluate supplier responsiveness early, request communication protocols, and choose suppliers who offer proactive shipment updates with load photos.
Summary: Building a resilient hazelnut supply chain
Hazelnut supply chain risks cannot be eliminated entirely, but they can be effectively managed through careful supplier selection, diversified sourcing, transparent communication and strong quality systems. Manufacturers and importers who work with reliable Turkish suppliers gain stability, predictability and long-term value in their procurement programs.
Looking for a stable long-term Turkish hazelnut partner?
Atlas Hazelnuts provides consistent quality, controlled sourcing and export-ready processing for global buyers.