14.09.2025 21:51
Ömer Üstünel, an auto mechanic living in Kocaeli, decided to produce aronia after experiencing health benefits from the fruit in his long-standing battle with stomach issues. This year, Üstünel harvested 250 kilograms of the fruit, and due to high demand, he sold all of it before the harvest. His goal for the next harvest is to exceed 1,000 kilograms.
Ömer Üstünel, who has been living in Kocaeli and working in the auto maintenance and repair sector for about 30 years, decided to produce the fruit after experiencing health benefits from aronia, which he consumed on recommendation to solve his long-standing stomach issues.
FOUND HIS LIFE'S WORK WHILE SEEKING CURE FOR HIS ILLNESS
About 3 years ago, Üstünel planted 560 saplings on a 4.5-acre land located in the rural Gökçeören neighborhood of Izmit, and he harvested his first crop last year. This year, the businessman, who received more produce than expected, managed to sell his highly demanded products even before the harvest.
While Üstünel provides additional income through his efforts, he also finds an opportunity to escape the intense work pace of his business, where he employs 10 people in the Izmit Industrial Site.
"HERE WE RELEASE OUR STRESS AND FIND PEACE"
41-year-old Üstünel expressed that after regaining his health thanks to aronia, he wanted to share this with others, stating that he both produces and finds peace in the garden he established in Izmit. Emphasizing that his garden offers him a great opportunity to escape the intense pace of the industrial site, Üstünel said, "During the week, there is a heavy workload in the industry. On weekends, we come here as a family, connecting with nature. In addition to aronia, we also grow vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, melons, and watermelons. We share our products with those in need. Here, we release our stress and find peace. We come here on Friday evenings and spend the weekend as a family, relieving our stress here." he said.
"THE CLIMATE IS SUITABLE FOR ARONIA PRODUCTION"
Üstünel stated that he has proven that aronia, which is resistant to cold climate conditions, can be successfully grown in Kocaeli. He noted, "The area we are in is one of the first places where snow falls. Despite this, our saplings are quite healthy. The climate of Kocaeli is suitable for aronia production." he evaluated.
"THIS YEAR WE HARVESTED 250 KILOGRAMS AND SOLD THEM ALL BEFORE HARVEST"
Üstünel noted that he wants to transform aronia into value-added products in the coming years. He mentioned that aronia has great potential in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors, saying, "This year we harvested 250 kilograms of product. Due to high demand, we sold all of it before the harvest. My goal in the fifth year is to exceed 1000 kilograms. In the coming years, we aim to evaluate this product both in the domestic market and for export." he said.