There are numerous varieties of olives in Egypt. The fruits can be picked when they are green (unripe) or allowed to fully ripen to black,

Overview

In Egypt, there are numerous varieties of olives. The fruits can be picked when they are green (unripe) or fully matured to black, as well as any other stage in between. The taste, color, and texture of olives depend heavily on when they are harvested. Before consumption, olives must be processed. The extraction of oil from olives has become a significant industry due to olive oil's well-documented benefits, including lowering heart disease risk, reducing hypertension, and preventing strokes. Additionally, olive oil helps protect the body against oxidants and lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes. Beyond its health benefits, olive oil is also recommended for promoting healthy hair, nails, and skin. The olive harvest season in Egypt runs from August through the end of November, and olives can be stored for up to 12 months, except for the Tofahy type.

Packaging

Various Types of Olives:
Green Olives:
Tofahy:
Green round fruits
Large sizes 8-16gm
Oil content 5-7%
Season: August to November
Can be stored for up to three months
Aguizy:
Medium green fruits
Size range 10-11gm
Seed comprises 10-15% of the fruit
Great for stuffing with peppers or carrots
Varieties (Shamy: Almond-shaped, medium size 7-10gm)
(Aksi: Elongated, smaller size 6-8gm)
Manzanilla:
The most renowned Spanish olive
Almost round fruit
Medium size 4-6gm
Seed comprises 10-12% of the fruit
Oil content 16-20%
Fruits (Olives) begin to ripen in September (Green Olives) until November

Black Olives:
Kalamata:
One of the most recognized varieties of olives
Large, dark purple (Black) olives
Elongated with a sharp point
Has smooth, meaty flesh taste with a low level of bitterness
Used as table olives
Oil content 15-20%
Fruit size 3-7gm.
Seed comprises 9-11% of the fruit's weight
Must be picked by hand to prevent damage and cannot be harvested while green

Pequal
(Piqual):
Small, rounded Black Olives
Sizes 3-7gm
Seed comprises 12% of the fruit's weight
Oil content 18-22%

Dolcy:
Elongated Black Olives
Average sizes 3-6gm
Oil content 15-18%

Packaging:
Packaging is tailored according to the specifications of the olives in terms of size, color, and packaging style.