By Michael Kuttner…

Israel’s avocado industry is preparing for a record-breaking peak season. A combination of ideal weather conditions and massive expansion of avocado plantations in recent years is expected to bring a record-breaking increase in yields, resulting in large quantities reaching the market and driving down prices of one of Israel’s favorite fruits.

Another major factor behind the abundance is the massive expansion of avocado-growing areas in recent years. Israel currently has approximately 160,000 acres of avocado plantations, with an additional 8,000 to 10,000 acres planted every year. In recent years, most of the expansion has shifted to southern Israel, while traditional growing regions in the Western Galilee and Jordan Valley have reached their land capacity. These younger orchards have now matured and are producing enormous quantities of fruit.

Israelis, who are considered passionate avocado consumers and rank second worldwide in per-capita consumption (12 kilograms per year, just behind Mexico), are expected to enjoy an exceptional year of abundance. The industry also invests approximately NIS 2 million annually in television and social media advertising campaigns designed to encourage domestic consumption.

Avocado growers, like other farmers in Israel’s north and south, have endured nearly three difficult years. They continued working daily in open fields, including areas where air defense systems do not provide full protection, while carrying out agricultural work under constant security risks. Now, they can finally return their full attention to farming.

Meanwhile, major packing houses are preparing for an unprecedented logistical operation and will operate in two shifts for the first time in order to handle the record harvest volumes.

MORE EXCITING DISCOVERIES

Archaeologists continue to make discoveries which bring Biblical accounts to life and validate the original connection of Jews to Judea and Samaria.

As the international community convulses over Jews developing these ancient areas Israel proves yet again that “we were there” long before todays would be usurpers ever existed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Pe4ff9T470

SAVING LIVES ON THE KINNERET

It is the height of summer and Lake Kinneret is a hot attraction for thousands of Israelis trying to keep cool.

The lake is deceptively calm but it often can be dangerous and life threatening.

Learn how Hatzalah is helping to save lives and keep holiday makers from drowning.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9tlEdd2Xog

A HISTORIAN’S STORY

A fascinating encounter with a local historian.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebuzBY9VIfI

A TRUE STORY OF SURVIVAL

Revived from 2,000 years of hibernation this fascinating saga is a modern day miracle.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4c-MPUivyU

Michael Kuttner is a Jewish New Zealander who for many years was actively involved with various communal organisations connected to Judaism and Israel. He now lives in Israel. 

[This article was originally published on J-Wire and is reproduced here with permission from Michael Kuttner.]