It is learnt that Goa’s cashew nuts are likely to get a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the end of May, which would be the 11th state unique agriculture products to get the status. The GI tag will officially recognize the distinctive flavour, quality and regional identity of Goan cashew nuts. It will offer them enhanced protection in domestic and international markets. The certification is also expected to provide support to the local farmers who rely on cashew cultivation as a main source of income. It must be said that sale of cashew nuts coming from outside the state and being sold as Goan cashew nuts must be stopped. There needs to be a check on whether fake cashew nuts are entering Goa. Real cashew nuts exhibit a pure white colour, while fake ones tend to appear light yellow. When dropped in water original cashew nuts will sink while fake ones will float. The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) needs to keep a check on the cashew nuts coming from other states as they could be artificially prepared ones.
