The most emblematic and valuable gourmet nut is the Mediterranean pine nut, but from Antiquity edible seed or fruits have had an important role in this area. Pine nuts harvesting has been mechanized considerably -reducing costs and labour risks- and that, along with the most innovative research on forest genetics is helping to modernize the value chain of this NWFP.

In spite of this pests, diseases and fruit pests are one of the main fronts to address, besides the adoption of new forms of forest management taking into account adaptation to climate change, with the focus on the fact that new business opportunities must guarantee traceability and product quality throughout the value chain.