For exporters targeting European buyers, consistent quality and reliable supply are no longer optional—they’re essential. This guide walks through the full production chain of premium garlic from China’s top-growing regions, focusing on scientific cultivation, precise harvesting, rigorous sorting, and cold-chain logistics that meet EU food safety standards.
Successful garlic export begins long before the harvest. In Shandong and Yunnan provinces—two of China’s leading garlic-producing areas—farmers use soil testing to adjust pH levels (ideally between 6.0–7.0) and enrich organic matter content to over 2.5%. These practices improve root development and reduce disease risk. According to field data collected by the Chinese Agricultural Research Institute, properly managed soils yield up to 20% more marketable bulbs per hectare compared to conventional methods.
The ideal harvest window is determined by leaf senescence and bulb maturity. Farmers monitor this using a simple method: when 50–70% of leaves turn yellow, it signals optimal dry matter accumulation. Delaying harvest beyond 3 days can result in reduced shelf life due to moisture loss—a critical factor for EU importers requiring year-round freshness.
Post-harvest handling is where quality is truly defined. Each batch undergoes three stages of manual and automated inspection:
| Stage | Criteria | Pass Rate (Avg.) |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Inspection | No mold, cracks, or discoloration | 96% |
| Weight & Size Grading | Standardized into 4 sizes (30g–45g, 45g–60g, etc.) | 92% |
| X-ray Scanning | Detects internal damage or pests | 98% |
This multi-layered approach ensures that only Grade A garlic reaches international markets—an important differentiator for buyers seeking consistency across multiple shipments.
Once sorted, garlic must be cooled within 6 hours of harvest to prevent sprouting and microbial growth. Storage at 0–4°C with 65–75% humidity maintains quality for up to 12 months. Our partners in Zhejiang use vacuum-sealed packaging with breathable net bags—proven to extend shelf life by 30% compared to standard plastic film, according to trials conducted with German distributors.
Shipping via refrigerated containers (reefers) guarantees temperature stability throughout transit. Data from our logistics team shows that shipments arriving in Rotterdam have an average spoilage rate of just 1.2%, far below the industry benchmark of 3–5%.
European importers increasingly demand traceability, sustainability, and predictable delivery cycles—not just low cost. By aligning with these expectations, Chinese producers are not only meeting regulatory requirements but building trust-based relationships with buyers in Germany, France, Italy, and Spain.
If you're sourcing high-quality garlic for your European business, let us help you build a trusted, scalable supply chain. We’ve supported over 40 B2B clients since 2019 with full documentation, third-party lab reports, and real-time shipment tracking.
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