After 40 years, Kerala's Alangad jaggery to make a comeback

Context

After an absence of four decades, the renowned Alangad jaggery is poised to make a comeback in the market.

About Alangad Jaggery:

Alangad jaggery, once famed for its unique taste, enjoyed historical significance, with mentions in Kerala’s trading history.

It was even reputed to have been exported to China in the distant past.
Alangad Jaggery’s fame was attributed to its distinct taste, with a process that excluded the use of salt. The composition of the fields’ soil imparted a unique flavor to the product.

The Alangad Jaggery Resurgence: After a four-decade hiatus, the iconic Alangad jaggery is set to make a triumphant return to the market.

The first batch, named after its place of origin, Alangad in Ernakulam, is expected to hit the shelves by the end of January 2024.
The revival is part of the 'Krishikkoppam Kalamassery' initiative, a concerted effort to bring back traditional crops once cultivated in the region.
Farmers actively involved in sugarcane cultivation are being supplied all the machinery and equipment required for jaggery production have been procured by the KVK.
The initiative is currently in its initial phase, with sugarcane cultivation taking place on six acres of land at Neerikode, Kongorpilly, and Thiruvallur in Alangad panchayat.
The Ernakulam Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Alangad Cooperative Bank, Alangad grama panchayat, Krishi Bhavan, agriculture department, Atma, and Alangad block panchayat are providing comprehensive support for the cultivation.