The production of high-quality agricultural products is essential for the development and prosperity of Greece. The agricultural products of Crete, known for their unmatched quality, unique nutrients, and international reputation, could help Greece establish itself as one of the leading producers in Europe.
Agricultural cooperatives play a crucial role in this effort. No one understands the specifics of a product better than its own producers. The Agricultural Cooperative of Chania focuses on the continuous pursuit of quality, proper standardization, and the promotion of agricultural products, placing these at the heart of modern agricultural production. The goal is to utilize the extensive practical knowledge of those who work the land daily to cultivate the most nutritious products.
The history of the Agricultural Cooperative of Chania dates back over 85 years. Founded in 1930 as the Cooperative of Kolymvari, the initial focus was on effectively standardizing and marketing olive oil from Kolymvari. In 2003, the Union of Agricultural Cooperatives (UAC) of Kolymvari merged with the UACs of Chania, Maleme, and Kastelli to form UAC KYDONIAS – KISSAMOU. Since 2014, the organization has been known as the Agricultural Cooperative of Chania.
The recent economic crisis in Greece has highlighted that a country without strong agricultural production is essentially a poor country, as it cannot adequately feed its people. Despite the challenges faced by producers, the long history of the cooperative shows that respect for nature and proper cultivation methods lead to superior agricultural products that bring prosperity on both local and national levels.
The modern facilities in Kolymvari, with a storage capacity of 7,100 tons of olive oil and a daily packaging capacity of 30 tons, are among the best in Greece. Here, the famous Kolymvari Extra Virgin Olive Oil, with an acidity of just 0 – 0.8, is produced under the highest standards and with the latest technology.
The continuous modernization of the machinery reduces human intervention, increases product safety, and optimizes the traceability of the olive oil. The quality control of the olive oil, adhering to the highest international standards, is a key factor in its excellent flavor. The chemical laboratory, one of the best in Greece, plays a central role in this process.
