Galicia chestnut harvest faces quality issues due to heat

Unseasonably high temperatures and a lack of rainfall are negatively impacting the chestnut harvest in Galicia, Spain. Producers and vendors report that the delayed arrival of autumn weather is affecting both the quality and the size of the fruit.

Xesús Quintá, president of the Protected Geographical Indication Castaña de Galicia, noted that while trees initially appeared healthy in early September, the subsequent heat in September and October has been abnormal. This has resulted in smaller fruit and concerns regarding the health of the crop, including the presence of fungi and worms.

Vendors, such as Rober Costids, have noted that the heat delays the traditional start of the season, as consumers are less inclined to purchase hot chestnuts during warm weather. Additionally, scarcity and quality issues are driving up prices, as high-quality produce is often exported, leaving local markets with more expensive or inconsistent stock.