Arleux smoked garlic enters smoking phase after harvest

The production of Arleux smoked garlic PGI has entered the smoking phase following a satisfactory spring harvest in the Hauts-de-France region. Despite high temperatures during the harvest period after July 14, producers report that quantities remain within normal ranges.

While total yields are average, the size of the garlic bulbs has been inconsistent this year. Producer Éric Potdevin noted that while the heatwave did not significantly impact the overall harvest, the drying soil required a rapid harvest to avoid clumping. He also highlighted that spring garlic is particularly vulnerable to heatwaves and may require irrigation to prevent sharp declines in yield.

This niche product, grown across 62 communes in the Pas-de-Calais department, relies on a local variety of pink spring garlic and strict production specifications established in 2013. The traditional process involves harvesting, drying, plaiting, and finally smoking the garlic.