Indian foods that got the GI tags recently
Did you know India has the maximum number of GI tags for foods and agriculture produce! GI (Geographical Indication) tag is basically a measure, which defines the region of origin of a food or agricultural produce. It further signifies the origin of a product as intellectual property of that region. What makes it so important is that the GI tag of one country cannot be claimed by other countries.
You will be amazed to know that India has amassed huge fame in the International platform with around 365 GI tags. GI Tags represent a geographical indication of food, spice, or a natural resource that represents a particular region.
The concept of GI tag was introduced in the year 2013 and it was given to foods, natural and agricultural products, and handicrafts that gave a region it’s identity. The tags were given under the act of Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act,1999.
READMORE
Foods that got the GI tags recently
India has been famous for its rich resources, culinary culture and artistic excellence. Interestingly, till date India has received as good as 365 GI tags and the number of foods, spices and herbs have topped the list. From Black rice to Saffron, here are a few foods that have received the GI Tags and got huge fame across the globe.
Kashmiri Saffron
Kashmir Saffron recently got a GI tag for its premium quality and its enticing aroma. Kashmir is one of the major exporters of Saffron across the world and the quality and aroma of the Saffron makes it the most expensive variant around the world. This is because Kashmiri Saffron is cultivated with utmost care and is handpicked and sorted manually, which retains its aroma, taste and texture.
Gobindabhog Rice
It is absolutely impossible to imagine Payesh or Basanti Pulao without this unique rice variant. This slightly small in size variant of rice received the famed GI tag in the year 2017. Another natural produce from West Bengal- Gobinda Bhog rice has been a quintessential element of the Bengali cuisine. The cultivation of this rice happens in several regions like Hoogly, Birbhum and Burdwan.
Darjeeling Tea
One of the finest variants of tea around the world got this accolade in the year 2004-2005. It was one of the first products to receive the famed GI tags for its unique aroma and musky-spiced flavour, which has a fresh soothing taste.
Manipuri Black Rice
Manipuri Black rice also known as Chakhao got its GI tag recently in 2020. This is yet another variant of rice, but with double the nutritional value and its unique black colour boasts of its rich antioxidant qualities. This rice variant from Manipur is not only loaded with nutrients, but also has a nice aroma and nutty flavour, which makes it super delicious.
Bikaneri Bhujia
It is impossible to talk about tea in India without mentioning the snacks and savouries, and Bhujia happens to be a quintessential savory served with tea. Bikaner in Rajasthan got a GI tag for the most popular Bhujia in the year 2010.