Market
Raisins (dried grapes) in Greece are a producer-and-exporter market anchored by Corinthian currants (including PDO “Vostizza” from Aeghialeia/Aigio in Achaia, Peloponnese) and sultana raisins processed in Crete (Heraklion area). The sector supplies bakery/food-industry ingredients and retail packs, with EU compliance focus on mycotoxins (notably ochratoxin A) and sulphites labelling where used.
Market RoleProducer and exporter (EU-leading producer of Corinthian currants; also produces sultana raisins)
Domestic RoleIngredient and snack product used in Greek retail and bakery/food manufacturing; a meaningful share is processed for export channels.
Risks
Food Safety Myco HighOchratoxin A is a deal-breaker compliance risk for dried vine fruits: exceedances can trigger buyer rejection, recalls, or enforcement actions under EU contaminant rules.Use HACCP controls focused on drying and storage moisture management; implement routine mycotoxin testing (lot-based) and hold-and-release for export lots.
Regulatory Import Controls MediumGreek/EU supply chains that import dried grapes from certain third-country origins can face increased official controls at EU entry for ochratoxin A (HS 0806.20), increasing delay and cost risk for importers and blenders.Pre-qualify suppliers with historical COA performance; run pre-shipment testing and align documentation with the EU entry control regime.
Climate MediumDrought/heat extremes and water constraints can reduce grape yields and affect drying suitability in key Greek producing areas (Peloponnese and Crete), increasing year-to-year supply variability.Diversify sourcing across Greek regions and contract storage/stock buffers; monitor irrigation and water-availability indicators for key zones.
Labeling Allergen MediumSulphur dioxide/sulphites used in some raisin processing must be correctly controlled and declared when above the EU allergen threshold; mislabelling can trigger withdrawal or rejection.Verify additive use against EU authorisations; validate finished-product SO2 and maintain label checks aligned with EU food information rules.
Sustainability- Water stress and irrigation pressure in grape-growing areas producing dried vine products; site-specific water footprint assessment has been studied for PDO Vostizza Corinthian currants.
- Heatwave/drought variability in Mediterranean viticulture areas can affect yield and berry quality for drying.
Standards- GFSI-recognized schemes (e.g., BRC/BRCGS) reported by Greek dried-fruit exporters
- ISO 22000 reported by Greek dried-fruit exporters
- Organic (EU) processing/marketing programs reported by Greek currant exporters and cooperatives
FAQ
What makes “Vostizza” currants different in Greece’s raisin sector?“Vostizza” is a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) Corinthian currant type produced in the Aeghion/Aeghialeia area (Achaia, Peloponnese). It is positioned as a premium origin within Greek currants and is handled through cooperative and exporter programs.
What is the top food-safety deal-breaker risk for raisins traded from or into Greece (EU market)?Mycotoxins—especially ochratoxin A—are a key deal-breaker for dried vine fruits because EU contaminant rules set maximum limits and non-compliance can result in rejection, recalls, or enforcement actions.
Can EU entry controls affect raisin supply into Greece when sourcing from nearby non-EU origins?Yes. EU rules can temporarily increase official control frequency for certain goods at entry; for example, dried grapes (HS 0806.20) from Turkey are listed for ochratoxin A controls, which can increase sampling and delays for importers.
When are sulphites a labelling concern for raisins sold in Greece/EU?If sulphur dioxide or sulphites are present above the EU threshold (more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l, expressed as total SO2), they must be declared as an allergen under EU food information rules.