Classification
Product TypeProcessed Food
Product FormDried
Industry PositionProcessed Fruit Product
Market
Dried apricots in Greece are a trade-driven processed fruit market with significant import dependence. World Bank WITS/UN Comtrade (HS 081310) shows Greece imported about USD 4.49 million (761,041 kg) in 2024, mainly from Turkey, while Greece also records notable exports/re-exports to nearby markets.
Market RoleNet importer with re-export activity
Domestic RoleRetail and ingredient product (snacking, bakery/confectionery use) supplied largely via imports and repacking/trading channels
Market Growth
SeasonalityYear-round availability driven by import flows and inventory (shelf-stable product).
Specification
Physical Attributes- Color uniformity and absence of excessive browning (depending on sulphuring)
- Texture/chewiness targets aligned to intended use (snacking vs ingredient)
- Low foreign matter and defect tolerance (insect damage, mold, stones/pits)
- Common forms: whole, halves, pitted
Compositional Metrics- Sulphur dioxide/sulphites level (as SO2) where used, aligned to EU additive permissions and allergen disclosure triggers
- Mycotoxin compliance screening (aflatoxins) aligned to EU maximum levels for dried fruits
Grades- Size/grade specifications (count or diameter classes) used by buyers
- Whole vs halves/pitted grading and defect-based sorting specifications
Packaging- Retail packs (pouches/film packs; often resealable)
- Bulk cartons/liners for industrial and repacking trade
- Lot coding on primary and secondary packaging to support traceability and recall management
Supply Chain
Value Chain- Exporter/processor (origin country) → Greek importer/wholesaler → optional repacking/labeling → retail and ingredient distribution
- Imports may include intra-EU trading/re-exports as well as direct third-country supply (as seen in trade partner lists)
Temperature- Ambient transport and storage are typical; quality protection focuses on avoiding heat exposure that accelerates quality loss
Atmosphere Control- Moisture and oxygen management via appropriate barrier packaging helps reduce oxidation, stickiness, and mold risk
Shelf Life- Shelf life is primarily limited by moisture ingress, oxidation, and contamination risks rather than cold-chain breaks
Risks
Food Safety Compliance HighEU market access can be blocked or severely disrupted if dried apricots fail compliance on regulated hazards and disclosures—especially mycotoxins (e.g., aflatoxins) above EU maximum levels or sulphites present without correct allergen labeling—potentially triggering detention/rejection at entry and rapid alerts/recalls.Implement pre-shipment testing/COA for aflatoxins and confirm label/ingredient declarations for sulphites; monitor RASFF notifications relevant to origin and product category.
Supplier Concentration MediumGreek supply is vulnerable to disruptions or price shocks in its dominant source market: recent UN Comtrade/WITS data shows Turkey as the main supplier of HS 081310 dried apricots to Greece by both value and quantity.Qualify alternative origins and maintain safety stock; use multi-supplier contracts and validate equivalence of specifications (moisture, sizing, sulphite status, contaminant compliance).
Regulatory Enforcement MediumOfficial controls in Greece (EFET and other competent authorities) include labeling checks and laboratory testing for chemical contaminants; nonconformities can cause withdrawals, reputational damage, and added compliance costs.Run importer-side intake controls (spec checks, sampling plans, label review) and keep documentation ready for inspections.
Standards- HACCP
- ISO 22000
- BRCGS Food Safety
- IFS Food
FAQ
Who supplies most of Greece’s dried apricot imports?Recent UN Comtrade data accessed via the World Bank WITS platform (HS 081310) shows Turkey as the largest supplier to Greece by both value and quantity (e.g., in 2024).
Do sulphites in dried apricots need to be declared as an allergen in Greece?Yes. Under EU food information rules, sulphur dioxide and sulphites must be declared as allergens when present above 10 mg/kg (expressed as total SO2), which applies in Greece as an EU Member State.
Are sulphites permitted to be used in dried apricots sold in Greece?Yes. EU food additives legislation allows sulphur dioxide/sulphites (E220–E228) for certain dried fruits, including dried apricots, under specified conditions of use; products must still meet labeling requirements for sulphites as allergens.
What aflatoxin limits matter for dried apricots sold in Greece?EU contaminants rules set maximum levels for aflatoxins for dried fruits (with different limits depending on whether the product is for sorting/physical treatment before sale or placed on the market for final consumers/ingredients). These limits apply to dried apricots marketed in Greece.