Division 2 Processing

After acceptance the olives are transferred to tanks in order for the debittering process to take place. For this purpose a 1,5 to 2 % caustic soda solution is added, in line with the temperature and stage of ripeness of the olive. This stage lasts 12 hours. After the caustic soda solution has been removed with three rinses, water is added to the tanks, where the olives remain for eight hours. The water is then changed two or three times, each time after eight hours. The debittering can also be done naturally, using only water in the tanks for the soaking and rinsing. In both methods special care is given to keeping the olives slightly bitter.

At the end of the procedure, the olives are transferred to tanks for fermentation and a solution of up to 8,5 % brine is added. A regular check of the salt content of the brine and of the pH is carried out, and salt is added as and when necessary. The olives remain at this stage until the brine stabilises at the desired salt content. The fermentation procedure already starts in the previous stage and the time it takes depends on the stage of ripeness of the fruit and on the ambient temperatures, and ranges from two to four months.

Pitting is carried out mechanically. A lateral incision is made at one end of the olive and then a cruciform incision at the side of the stalk. With the aid of water and with mechanical pressure the stone is extracted. For crushing the olives, light mechanical presses are used that do not damage the flesh or break the stone.

The olives intended for stuffing are conveyed to work benches where experienced female workers fill them by hand. Olive stuffing is a traditional practice in Chalkidiki and almonds or small pieces of red pepper, carrot, gherkin and garlic are used.

The olives may be flavoured with aromatic plants of the region (oregano, thyme, capers, bay leaves, garlic, celery and red pepper).