Modified Mechanically Opened Pistachios (MMO) 

A big proportion of pistachios harvested every year are closed nut kernels. In a normal year on average this would constitute 20 – 25 % of total harvest in Iran. These nuts would be used for kernel production or would undergo a process to make them consumable as a snack.  At the same time in majority of these nuts the hard shell would act as a barrier and would protect the kernel.

Nonetheless, customers of mechanically opened pistachios are usually concerned with some negative aspects of this product.  Namely, lower meat content, existence of loose shells, problems in roasting, irregular cracks on shell, change in taste, etc.