How Grape Drying Was Done in Peru
In Peru, grape drying used to be a long process under the sun, requiring days of hard work. After harvesting, the grapes were placed in plastic crates and transported to the drying area. On a large surface, grapes were spread out on cloths laid on the ground to dry. The process of spreading the grapes on cloths, sometimes extending several meters, also took a considerable amount of time. Despite the temperature being around 37°C, the grapes were left to dry for days, exposed to dust. The grapes' colors would become almost unrecognizable due to the dust and dirt. After drying, the grapes would be washed and dried again. This process not only wasted time but also increased labor costs. The drying process was done without ensuring proper hygiene. In Peru, we installed the Ekotec Grape Drying Unit and dried grapes.
Explaining the Drying Process at Our Factory
After our customer visited our factory in Sakarya, we explained how we conduct the drying process in our demo cabin. By using a heat pump dryer, we save electricity. The drying cabin ensures hygiene. We also discussed the ease of using drying crates that are easy to transport. Thanks to the recipe control feature, the desired drying values can be saved. The humidity in the cabin is automatically expelled without any heat loss, keeping the process efficient. With our food-safe PE drying crates, we ensure a hygienic drying process.
The Transition to Ekotec Drying Unit
Recently, we activated the Ekotec Drying Unit we sent. In the past, nearly 33 million grapes were dried under the sun, exposed to dust and dirt. After harvesting, the grapes would cover a large area of land, and the drying process would take place over several days. During this time, the grapes would be exposed to dust, dirt, and pests, making the drying process problematic. Now, with the Ekotec Drying Unit, grape drying is done hygienically, saving both time and money.
History of Viticulture
When we look at the history of viticulture, we see that the importance of grape cultivation is highlighted by archaeological remains from the Hittite civilization around 2000 BC. Many of these historical remains still exist today. In the 17th century, grape cultivation had spread widely, as evidenced by historical artifacts found in Alişar (Yozgat) and Alacahöyük (Çorum).
Types of Grapes
Grapes can be classified according to their use. Some grapes are used for table consumption, while others are suitable for drying. Grapes used for winemaking have a different structure. Some of the grape varieties are as follows:
| DRYING | TABLE | WINE |
|---|---|---|
| Blackdimrit | Ancestor | Emir |
| Sultani | Sergeant | Citrus |
| Rumi | Italy | By the Gentlemen |
| Musque of Alexandria | Müşküle | Ox’s Eye |
Viticulture in Turkey
Viticulture is more common in Turkey in the Aegean and Marmara regions, where the climate plays a significant role. The cities where viticulture is most prevalent include Manisa, Izmir, Denizli, and Çanakkale (Bozcaada, Çeşme, Karaburun, Bergama, Aliağa, Dikili, Seferihisar, Salihli).
Grape Cultivation Around the World
Grape cultivation is widespread not only in Turkey but also in many countries around the world. Some of the countries where grape growing is popular include China, India, Turkey, the EU, Brazil, Chile, the USA, and Peru.
How Grapes Were Dried in Peru in the Past
In the past, grape drying in Peru was a challenging process. Grapes were spread out on long cloths, sometimes covering vast areas of land, and left to dry under the sun. The grapes would be exposed to dust and dirt for days, with temperatures reaching 37°C. The dust would mix with the grapes, making their colors almost unrecognizable. After drying, the grapes would be washed again and dried for a second time. This process was very labor-intensive, took a long time, and resulted in hygiene problems.
How Dried Grapes Looked After Laying on the Ground
After being spread on the cloths on the ground, the grapes were left to dry for days under the hot sun. The dust and dirt from the wind would mix with the grapes, causing their color to become indistinguishable. The grapes would later be washed again to ensure hygiene.
Ekotec Drying Unit
Thanks to the modular feature of the Ekotec Drying Unit, it can be set up easily.
Grapes Dried in the Drying Unit
The harvested grapes are washed before being placed in drying boxes. These boxes are then transported to the drying cabin using wheeled racks. The drying process is carried out hygienically.
