Sustainable Caper Farming in the Mediterranean: A Tradition That Respects Nature

For centuries, the caper bush (Capparis spinosa) has thrived where few plants can survive — the rocky, sunbaked hills of the Mediterranean.Its roots hold not only the soil but also the spirit of sustainability.At BestCapers by Tuna Sourcing, we believe that preserving this balance between nature, tradition, and agriculture is key to producing the world’s finest capers — ethically, responsibly, and sustainably.

A Naturally Sustainable Plant

Few crops are as naturally resilient as the caper bush.It grows in arid, nutrient-poor soils, often on slopes unsuitable for conventional farming.This hardiness makes it a cornerstone of Mediterranean ecological balance — it prevents erosion, supports pollinators, and thrives without irrigation or chemical inputs.

Its deep root system stabilizes the land, making it a natural protector of fragile ecosystems across Turkey, Greece, Italy, and North Africa.

Farming with Respect for the Land

Traditional caper cultivation depends on the rhythm of the seasons, not on synthetic fertilizers or forced growth.Farmers hand-pick each bud, ensuring the plant continues to regenerate naturally.

At BestCapers, we work with regional cooperatives that practice:

• Low-water farming techniques using rainfall capture systems

• Natural weed control instead of herbicides

• Minimal mechanization, preserving the soil’s natural structure

• Biodiversity protection, maintaining native herbs and pollinator habitats

This approach keeps the land healthy while ensuring the long-term availability of premium-quality capers.

Water Conservation in Arid Regions

In Mediterranean countries, water scarcity is an ongoing concern.Fortunately, caper bushes require minimal water — less than one-tenth of what most crops need.They thrive with seasonal rainfall and humidity, making them a model for climate-resilient agriculture.

By expanding caper cultivation, farmers in arid regions help restore local economies while conserving water resources.

Ethical and Social Sustainability

Sustainability isn’t just about the environment — it’s also about people.Caper harvesting is labor-intensive, relying on skilled local workers who have passed down their techniques for generations.

At BestCapers by Tuna Sourcing, we support:

• Fair wages and ethical labor practices

• Gender-inclusive employment (many caper pickers are women)

• Seasonal job stability for rural communities

• Knowledge transfer programs to preserve artisanal expertise

These practices create sustainable livelihoods while protecting cultural heritage.

Organic and Natural Brining Practices

The sustainability journey continues after harvest.Instead of using chemical preservatives, traditional producers rely on sea salt and natural fermentation to cure capers.This time-honored method minimizes waste and energy use while maintaining the caper’s authentic Mediterranean character.

At BestCapers, we integrate modern food safety standards — FSSC 22000, HACCP, and ISO 22000 — into this ancient craft, creating a bridge between heritage and modern efficiency.

Circular Economy and Waste Reduction

Every part of the caper plant serves a purpose.

• Leaves and stems can be composted or used for natural fertilizers.

• Brine byproducts are filtered and reused to reduce salt waste.

• Packaging materials are chosen for recyclability and minimal carbon footprint.

Through this circular production model, we ensure that the journey “from bud to brine” leaves as little environmental trace as possible.

Partnerships for a Greener Future

BestCapers collaborates with local agricultural institutes and sustainability experts to develop improved farming and processing methods.Our goal is to strengthen the entire supply chain — from smallholder farms to global buyers — with transparency, traceability, and environmental responsibility.

We believe sustainability is not a trend, but a return to balance, reflecting the same respect for nature that has guided Mediterranean farmers for centuries.

Preserving the Mediterranean Heritage

Each jar and drum of BestCapers represents a story — not only of taste but of stewardship.By choosing sustainably farmed capers, buyers and consumers alike support a model of agriculture that values quality over quantity, community over convenience, and nature over exploitation.