Egyptians harvest prickly pears - in pictures

Production of the summer fruit known locally as teen shoki is on the rise

A worker sings while carrying prickly pears on his head as their production is on the rise due to low water consumption and ability to withstand extreme temperatures, according to farmers, at a farm in Al Qalyubia Governorate, Egypt, August 2, 2022. REUTERS / Mohamed Abd El Ghany TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

Prickly pears, or teen shoki, are a popular fruit in Egypt during summer.

They are rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals.

Prickly pear cacti require a small amount of water and can withstand extreme temperatures.

The harvest season for prickly pears is in July and August.

Workers wear protective clothes to protect them from the thorns of the cactus.

The pear pickers at work.

Production is on the rise because of the fruit's low water consumption and ability to withstand extreme temperatures.

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