"It grows in Turkey and serves as a remedy for a thousand ailments."

In Hatay, the harvest is awaited for the Samandağ pepper, which is produced on 2,347 decares and has a Scoville heat value of 50,000, making it "Turkey's hottest pepper."

STARTED TO RIPEN

The Samandağ pepper, produced on 2,347 decares and grown under cover in the district, has started to ripen. The producers of the peppers have also carried out the necessary treatments and fertilizations. The producers stated that the harvest will spread over February and March.

"THERE IS A HIGH DEMAND BECAUSE IT IS GOOD FOR WEIGHT LOSS"

Güney Saknılı, who has been farming for about 30 years, stated that growing Samandağ pepper requires finesse, saying, "We thoroughly disinfect our soil against diseases and pests. We also provide the nutrients and minerals the plant needs through drip irrigation. We prevent harmful flies and insects by weaving fine nets around the greenhouse and hanging attractive traps. When our products reach harvest, we separate the red and green ones, package them, and deliver them to the merchants. In the past, we used to send these peppers to the Southeastern provinces. However, in recent years, demand has increased from large cities like Istanbul and Ankara. There is especially high demand because it is effective for weight loss. It is a very beautiful pepper with its spiciness and aroma. The harvest will start in the coming months and will spread over 2 months," he said.

"CAN BE CONSUMED IN ALL TYPES OF DISHES"

Dietitian İzem Zekiye Tum explained that Samandağ pepper is good for constipation due to its high fiber content and has a preventive effect on heart diseases and types of cancer due to its antioxidant content.

Tum used the following statements: "Thanks to the fiber content in Samandağ pepper, it helps us stay full. Due to its low-calorie content, it is included in diet lists. Thanks to the vitamin C it contains, it strengthens our immune system and helps in both the treatment and prevention of diseases such as flu and colds that are common in winter. It is also very important for eye diseases due to its vitamin A content. Samandağ pepper is also good for heart and vascular diseases. It is effective against bleeding. Thanks to the capsaicin substance, Samandağ pepper promotes the release of endorphins in the body, reducing the sensation of pain. It alleviates migraine-type headaches, muscle, and joint pains. It delays aging, prevents sagging and wrinkles in the skin. When consumed in appropriate amounts, it provides significant benefits to the body. Most importantly, it speeds up metabolism and helps with weight loss. It can be used fresh in salads, olive oil dishes, and mezes, or dried in the form of crushed pepper. It can also be consumed in all types of dishes. We do not recommend it for those with ulcer or hemorrhoid conditions."