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Source: The post is based on the article “Salem sago gets GI tag” published in The Hindu on 12th September 2023
What is the News?
Salem Starch and Sago Manufacturers Service Industrial Cooperative Society Ltd. (SAGOSERVE) from Tamil Nadu has received a Geographical Indication(GI) Tag for Salem sago.
What is Salem sago?
Source: The Hindu
Sago is derived from raw tapioca.It is in the form of small hard globules or pearls and is pearl white in colour.
It is produced in Salem district in Tamil Nadu which is the main center for sago production in the country.
It is manufactured from the wet starch powder crushed from tapioca roots.The wet starch powder is used for producing sago and the dry powder has been used as a raw material for industrial purposes.
Sago is used in various industries, including food, paper, construction, textile, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, mining, and alcohol, among others.
What is Tapioca?
Tapioca is a starchy food derived from the cassava root.In India, tapioca pearls are referred to as “Sabudana”.
Climate and Soil: Any well drained soil preferably red lateritic loam with a pH range of 5.5 -7.0 is best suited for tapioca cultivation.
– It thrives best in tropical, warm humid climate with well distributed rainfall of over 100 cm per annum. This crop can be cultivated upto an elevation of 1000 m.
Origin: Tapioca originated in South America and was later introduced to India.
– In India, tapioca is predominantly cultivated in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.
