Importers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Europe are increasingly choosing Iranian dried fruits due to their exceptional quality, competitive pricing, and strong compliance with EU and GCC standards. This post delves into the science-backed reasons, regulatory improvements as of mid-2025, and how Kiyasha Trading ensures reliable sourcing and export readiness.

1. Climate & Drying Methods Shape Superior Quality

Iran’s climate and traditional sun-drying methods favor natural sugar concentration, aroma preservation, and color stability in fruits like:

• Dried figs, apricots, raisins (Sultana, golden), mulberries, barberries

However, modern insights show that freeze drying—though costlier—retains nutrients, color, and aroma better than sun drying and can offer shelf life beyond one year when packaged correctly.

2. Safety & Mycotoxin Control

A comprehensive review of mycotoxins in dried fruits reveals:

• In Hamadan, Iran, 40.9 % of date samples were contaminated with aflatoxins (mean ~2.6 µg/kg) and 22.7 % had ochratoxin A (~1.2 µg/kg)

• Imported raisins in Iran were tested for heavy metals and pesticides with generally acceptable levels when processed properly

What it means for importers: Consistent lab testing, strict drying to <10 % moisture (aw <0.6), and choosing compliant suppliers are essential to ensure safety.

3. Advanced Packaging & Safety Technologies

Current scientific findings emphasize packaging’s role:

• PET and multilayer films under vacuum or nitrogen significantly reduce oxidation and aflatoxin formation in nuts and dried fruits.

• Edible coatings, including chitosan, gum arabic with essential oils, offer antimicrobial protection and extend shelf life—premier for retail packaging with long shelf expectations.

Kiyasha Trading offers both vacuum/Air‑MAP packaging and optional edible-coating treatments if desired.

4. Regulatory Developments & Export Assurance

• As of June 2025, the EU has noted improvement in Iranian pistachio exports and opted not to impose a ban, while continuing six-month compliance monitoring.

• Upcoming EU MRL changes for pesticides in tree nuts (effective from January 2026) emphasize stricter residue limits.

Kiyasha supports full EU- and GCC-standard documentation: aflatoxin/pesticide reports, halal certificates, phytosanitary documents, and tailored labeling.

5. Why Kiyasha Trading is Your Export Partner

• We implement evidence-based drying, storage, testing, and packaging protocols.

• We ensure compliance with the latest EU and GCC regulations, monitored through reliable labs.

• We offer flexible retail and bulk packaging, private-label options, and scientifically validated shelf-life strategies.