El Bierzo pear harvest begins amid bureaucratic delays

The pear harvest has begun in El Bierzo, though bureaucratic delays mean the fruit cannot yet be sold under the new ‘Pera del Bierzo’ Denominación de Origen seal. Instead, it will continue to be marketed under the existing ‘Pera Conferencia del Bierzo’ guarantee mark. The new designation is expected to be ready by spring for the next harvest.

Climate change and excessive heat waves have caused the fruit to mature earlier than in previous decades. Dani Franco, president of the Asociación Berciana de Agricultores, noted that while pears were traditionally harvested in September, heat has significantly shifted this timeline.

While exact production volumes are not yet confirmed, officials anticipate a lower yield than last year’s 15 million kilograms. More than 1,500 seasonal workers are expected to participate in this year's harvest.