Metko Export – Sumac

About Sumac

Sumac (Rhus coriaria) is one of the staple spices of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, obtained by drying and grinding its berries. With its burgundy-cherry color, citrus-like acidity, and naturally fruity aroma, it brings brightness to dishes. It is especially preferred in salads, grills, kebabs, seafood, and sauces; it also adds character to yogurt-based dips, marinades, and spice blends (e.g., za’atar variants).

Sensory and Nutritional Properties

• Aroma/Taste: Citrus-like, tangy and lightly fruity; a refreshing finish on the palate.

• Color: Deep burgundy/red; high color stability with proper processing and storage.

• Composition: Natural organic acids (citric/malic), polyphenols and anthocyanins; salt-free/natural form is preferred.

• Forms: Whole berries, coarse, ground.

Applications

• Gastronomy: Salads (e.g., fattoush), meat/seafood marinades, kebabs and wraps, meze, rice/pilaf.

• Industrial: Sauces, ready meals, spice mixes, snack coatings.

• Functional: A natural color and flavor aid in product development thanks to its antioxidant content.

The Metko Export Difference

• Source Management: Selected origins and batch-level quality tracking.

• Processing: Removal of stems/seeds, controlled drying, low-heat grinding to preserve aroma and color.

• Options: Salt-free natural sumac; granulation (coarse–fine) and color intensity tailored to customer needs.

• Quality Assurance: Moisture, ash, purity, color (Lab*) and microbiology controls; analysis report for every lot.

• Logistics: Light/moisture-barrier packaging, expedited loading, support for multiple Incoterms.

Typical Product Specification (target values)

• Moisture: ≤ 10%

• Salt (NaCl): ≤ 1% (natural/salt-free product)

• Foreign Matter: ≤ 0.5%

• Color: Deep burgundy, low browning

• Aroma: Citrus-tangy, no off-odors

• Form: Whole / Coarse / Ground (40–80 mesh)

Export and Packaging

• Origin: Türkiye and selected international sourcing networks

• Season: Harvest in autumn; regular year-round supply

• Packaging: 500 g – 1 kg consumer packs; 5 / 10 / 25 kg industrial bags (aluminum-laminate or kraft with inner liner)

• Incoterms: EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP

• Transport: Road/sea/air; shipped in dark, cool, dry conditions

Storage and Shelf Life

Store away from direct light, moisture and heat, in sealed packaging. Recommended shelf life is 18–24 months (12–18 months for ground form). Keep opened packs in oxygen/moisture-barrier containers.

Compliance and Documentation

Upon request, process certificates under ISO/HACCP/FSMS, certificates of origin and analysis reports are provided. Allergen, pesticide and heavy metal limits are managed in line with applicable regulations.

Partnership

Metko Export is your trusted partner for supplying salt-free natural sumac with high color and aroma stability. Contact our team for samples, quotations and technical specifications.