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Iran's 'Green Gold' Locked Down: Nuts Stuck, Prices Spike
24 Apr
Summary
- Iranian internet shutdown prevents pistachio sales, causing extreme price fluctuations.
- Global demand for pistachios is high due to viral trends and Middle East conflict.
- Major food companies secure pistachio supplies via long-term contracts from other regions.

A severe internet shutdown in Iran has created a significant disruption for the global pistachio market. Companies like Borna Foods, a supplier to UK retailers, are unable to contact their Iranian suppliers, leading to unpredictable and extreme price fluctuations for the nut, often referred to as 'green gold'.
Iran, the world's second-largest pistachio producer, is experiencing this supply shock as demand rises due to viral food trends and ongoing Middle East conflict. This situation has pushed pistachio prices to an eight-year high. For businesses relying on Iranian pistachios, particularly those valued for their high oil content, sourcing alternatives from the US is problematic due to differences in oil content.