Goan Cashew
WHY IN NEWS ?
Recently, Goan cashew (kernel) got the geographical indication (GI) tag. 
BACKGROUND
Cashew was native to northeast Brazil in Latin America and was introduced to Goa by the Portuguese in the 16th century (1570).
At the time of its introduction on Indian coasts, cashew was known mainly as a crop for afforestation and soil conservation.
However, the economic value of cashew nuts was discovered by Goan prisoners exiled to the Portuguese territory of Africa (Mozambique) during Goa’s freedom movement in the mid-18th century.
According to research, the first cashew factory in Goa started operations in 1926 and the first consignment of cashew kernels was exported in 1930.
In the 10 years before Goa was liberated in 1961, it exported on average over Rs 20 lakh worth of processed cashew nuts, some of which were locally grown and others imported and processed in seven units.
Climatic condition
- Soil and climate: Well-drained deep sandy loam soils are the best for growing cashew. In general, all soils from sandy to laterite are well suited for this crop.
- It is very well adapted to Indian coastal area under hot humid conditions
- Temperature: In the range of 20 to38 o C, relative humidity in the range of 60 to 95%.
- Rain fall: Annual precipitation in the range of 2000 to 3500mm.
- Extreme low temperature and frost are not conducive to raise cashew plantations.
Significance:
- The GI tag would help consumers differentiate between authentic Goan cashews and cashews sourced from outside the state, which are often marketed as ‘Goan cashews’.
- Goan cashew will come with the GI logo. Traders cannot use Goa cashew logo on the packets without registration and the government will take steps to promote it.
SOURCE – Indian Express
