Nut harvesting is the collection of mature nuts once hulls split or nuts fall naturally, using mechanical shakers, sweepers and harvesters for species such as walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds.
In trade practice
Harvest timing is critical: nuts left on the ground too long absorb moisture and are exposed to mould, insect damage and aflatoxin risk. Mechanical shakers dislodge nuts onto windrows, which sweepers then gather for transport to the drying facility. Operators record harvest date and field lot to support traceability through shelling and grading. Prompt drying after harvest is the primary control against quality deterioration.
In a specification
Export contracts may require the supplier to declare harvest date and origin field or orchard block, linking the lot to pre-harvest inspection records and post-harvest drying logs.