Founded in 2011, Growex has positioned itself as a reliable Chilean processor and exporter of walnuts, supplying international markets with products that meet the highest quality and food safety standards. Working closely with its producer partners and carefully selected third parties, the company offers a diversified portfolio tailored to the needs of global buyers. In this interview, Rodrigo Plass shares insights into Growex’s production model, quality standards, and its vision for the Middle East market.
1. Could you introduce Growex and its nut production model?
Growex, founded in 2011, processes and markets walnuts worldwide, ensuring a reliable supply of raw material sourced from its producer partners as well as selected third parties chosen for their certified quality. The company offers three types of products: in-shell walnuts, hand-cracked walnuts, and mechanically cracked walnuts.
2. What is the difference between hand-cracked and mechanically cracked walnuts?
Mechanical cracking is carried out using various machines that crack and process the walnuts, separating the kernel according to different by-products. Hand cracking, on the other hand, is performed by human hands (women), who crack the walnuts more delicately in order to minimize damage to the kernel.
3. How are hazelnuts integrated into your export offering?
Hazelnuts are not currently part of our product portfolio. However, we closely follow the positive development of European hazelnut production in Chile and the emerging interest from some of our clients around the world in incorporating this product.
4. What quality standards define your processing plants?
Growex is a company that complies with the highest quality standards at its processing plant. We hold the BRCGS certification at its highest level, AA+, which supports our strong commitment to the safety, authenticity, legality, and quality of our products.
Our plant operates under a robust Food Safety and Quality Management System, where each process is based on risk management and hazard analysis, ensuring preventive control at every stage of processing. This system includes strict controls over raw materials, production processes, and finished products, guaranteeing full traceability of our products.
5. What type of distributors are you looking for in the Middle East?
As in other markets where Growex is already present, we seek to expand our client portfolio with importers looking for high-quality Chilean walnuts. We offer a broad range of products, including in-shell walnuts in different sizes, mechanically cracked kernels, and extra light walnut halves hand-cracked into butterfly shapes.
