Alfonso Monroy Sepúlveda, Marketing Manager of PEUMA Dry Fruits, represents a new generation of Chilean agribusiness professionals focused on sustainability, premium quality, and international market expansion. Founded in 2021 by two experts with extensive experience in the agro-industrial sector, PEUMA Dry Fruits was born from a clear vision: to promote responsible agricultural practices while generating a positive impact on communities and the environment.
From an initial export volume of just 20 tons, the company has experienced remarkable growth, reaching 1,200 tons exported in 2025 to multiple markets across Europe. Today, PEUMA Dry Fruits is recognized for its Extra Light walnuts, strict quality controls, and strong collaboration with local producers. As the company prepares to participate in Gulfood, Alfonso Monroy Sepúlveda shares PEUMA’s strategy, quality philosophy, and ambitions for high-value global markets.
Can you introduce PEUMA Dry Fruits and its specialization in walnuts?
At PEUMA Dry Fruits, we develop an ethical and responsible supply chain, working collaboratively with local producers and ensuring fair conditions for farmers, suppliers, and workers at every stage of the production process.
We specialize in the commercialization of high-standard agricultural products, designed to meet the demands of the world’s most sophisticated markets. This includes the development of differentiated products and the careful selection of distribution channels to efficiently reach the final consumer.
Together with our producers, we integrate sustainable agricultural practices, technological innovation, community development, and excellence in product quality. Our objective is to build a solid company that promotes responsible agriculture and contributes to the well-being of people and the environment.
What defines Extra Light kernels in premium markets?
Alfonso Monroy Sepúlveda says:
It is the combination of a perfect visual appearance with superior intrinsic quality that justifies their premium value, especially in demanding markets such as Dubai, where visual excellence and flavor are paramount.
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Color: They are the lightest and palest kernels, with immaculate skin and free from blemishes. This is the gold standard for gourmet presentation.
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Size: They correspond to the largest and most uniform calibers of the harvest, offering exceptional texture and yield.
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Flavor and Freshness: Careful processing guarantees a sweet, clean flavor with no bitterness and a crunchy texture that reflects maximum freshness.
How do you adapt cuts and formats according to the type of buyer?
Our adaptation strategy is based on the final application and sales channel of each client, optimizing their process and the value delivered to the end consumer.
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In-shell walnuts: 10 kg and 25 kg formats
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Shelled walnuts: 5 kg bags with modified atmosphere packaging, packed in 10 kg boxes
What quality controls ensure product consistency?
Origin Control (Immediate Post-Harvest):
Controlled drying through continuous monitoring of temperature and humidity to preserve light color and prevent rancidity. First-line optical sorting uses color and laser technology to automatically discard kernels with any color defects or stains. Moisture and water activity (aW) testing ensure microbiological stability and extended shelf life.
Processing Plant Control:
Double optical and manual inspection after shelling and cutting guarantees batch uniformity. Physical controls include size calibration through sieving, metal detection, and X-ray scanners to ensure food safety.
Aflatoxin and Pesticide Analysis:
Conducted in both internal and accredited external laboratories, complying with the strictest limits established by the EU, GCC, and USA.
Which markets are you prioritizing at Gulfood 2026?
Alfonso Monroy Sepúlveda says:
Gulfood is our strategic hub for connecting with high-value, high–purchasing power markets.
We are prioritizing the consolidation of the GCC, deepening our presence in Asia through importers based in Dubai, and exploring ultra-premium niches in Europe. All of this is supported by presenting our Extra Light quality seal, flavor profile, and denomination of origin as some of our key differentiators.
Peuma Dry Fruits
Contact: Carlos Vallejos / Alfonso Monroy
Email: cvallejos@peuma.net
/ amonroy@peuma.net
