Editorial: Recent advances in hazelnut (Corylus spp.)

Abstract

The European hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) of the genus Corylus is a major species of interest for nutritional use, and its nuts are widely used worldwide in the chocolate, confectionery, and bakery industries. Other Corylus species, including C. americana, C. heterophylla, and C. colurna, are of local interest for commercial uses and provide important genetic resources for breeding. The global production of hazelnut has increased since the beginning of the last century, especially in the last 10 years in response to the demands of the confectionery industry, which processes about 90% of the harvested nuts. Cultivation of this nut has expanded in several traditional countries as well as in new areas, including Chile, South Africa, and Australia. Therefore, this Research Topic devoted to European hazelnut and its related species has been designed with the aim of assembling an effective-knowledge platform based on recent research carried out in the Corylus spp. sector. The Research Topic brings together some of the latest research outputs in hazelnut cultivation, genetic resources, and post-harvest processing, thanks to the excellent response to the call which resulted in the publication of 25 original articles. We found the edition and selection of articles for this book very inspiring and rewarding. We also thank the editorial staff and reviewers for their efforts and help during the process. The scientific contributions are briefly discussed below, grouped into seven sections according to the main topics proposed during the Research Topic launch.