Vietnam field trip 12/2024

During the Christmas holiday of 2024, we embarked on our first field trip to visit a macadamia farm in Buon Ma Thuot, located just 80 km from the city center.

The small village welcomed us with sunny, pleasant weather and warm hospitality. Guided by Mr. Hue, the director of Vietnoxagri, and his co-founder, Mr. Hau, we gained invaluable insights into macadamia cultivation. They walked us through the meticulous process of selecting and crafting the right macadamia plants for planting. They also taught us how to identify strong, resilient macadamia trees, well-suited to the region’s favorable weather and soil conditions in the Central Highlands.

Our visit continued to a packaging and storage facility where nuts were collected, packed, and stored under controlled conditions. We learned about the critical factors—such as optimal humidity levels—that affect the quality and crunchiness of the nuts. Preserving their texture requires careful handling from the moment of harvest, a process we look forward to understanding further, including deshelling and advanced packaging methods.

One fascinating aspect of our trip was learning about virgin cold-pressed macadamia oil production. This premium oil is highly sought after for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications, while simpler pressing methods are ideal for household use.

We also had the chance to sample macadamia milk, a creamy, nutrient-rich alternative for vegetarians and plant-based consumers. Its exceptional flavor left a lasting impression, and we can envision it claiming a top spot on the shelves of plant-based milk options.

The highlight of our trip was visiting a macadamia field where most of the nuts had already been harvested. We were captivated by the entire growth process—from the flowers to the fully grown nuts—and left with a newfound appreciation for this remarkable tree and its potential.