THE STORY BEHIND OUR ORGANIC GOAN CASHEWS

Published On 25/11/2024

At Zantye's, our passion for nuts runs deep. Our organic Goan cashews are more than just a lip-smacking snack; they are a testament to the harmonious relationship between nature, legacy, and sustainable farming practices that have been part of the land for the longest time. Read along to know the process that goes down to bring Zantye’s cashews from the farms to your table.

The Goan Cashew: A Legacy of Excellence

Imagine yourself strolling through a lush Goan orchard, the air filled with the sweet aroma of ripe cashew apples in scenic forests of Sanquem, Sanqlelim, Sattari, Ponda Pednem and Bicholim. This is where the magic begins. Goan cashews possess an unparalleled quality, a result of centuries worth of legacyand an unwavering commitment to organic farming.

Cashews first arrived in Goa in the 16th century, brought by the Portuguese to combat soil erosion. Little did they know that these humble nuts would become an integral part of Goa's cultural heritage. Today, some of the oldest cashew trees in the world stand tall in Goa, their branches heavy with the legacy of generations past. These ancient trees, carrying the original genetic lineage of the crop, produce cashews with an unmatched authenticity and flavour.

Unlike conventional cashew farming, where nuts are often harvested prematurely for higher yields, Goan farmers have a respect for the natural ecosystem. They wait for the cashews to ripen to perfection, allowing them to fall to the ground. This unique harvesting technique ensures that each cashew is bursting with flavour and sweetness.

Goa's tropical climate, with its abundant sunshine and fertile soil, provides the perfect environment for cashew cultivation. The warm, humid air and nutrient-rich soil nurture the cashew trees, enabling them to produce exceptional quality and taste in the nuts. This interplay between nature and nurture is what sets our organic Goan cashews apart.

A significant portion of Goa's cashew trees thrive in protected forest areas, where the Goa Forest Department carefully regulates harvesting. The forest area is divided into four circles, each circle consisting around 40 to 50 plots, each which is auctioned every year to various self-help group or farmers for the right to harvest for the period of four months from February to May, which is the harvesting period. The winner of the auction is allowed to enter the forest area in the month of January to clear out all the weeds (a practice locally known as Benpak) which has grown during the year.

Mostly local communities from that area, participate in the harvesting of the same. This unique system ensures the sustainability of cashew cultivation while providing a valuable source of income for local communities, who have been in the profession for generations.

Many Goan cashew farmers, particularly those harvesting within forest areas, are deeply committed to organic farming methods. They nourish their trees with natural fertilisers like cow dung and neem cake, rejecting harmful chemicals that can compromise the quality of the soil and the health of the ecosystem. These techniques are reflected in the superior taste and nutritional value of our organic Goan cashews.

The Goan cashew's significance extends beyond its culinary value. The cashew apple, often overlooked in other parts of the world, is a cherished ingredient in Goan cuisine. It is used to create a variety of delicacies, including jams, juices, and even a unique alcoholic beverage called "Feni." This rich culinary tradition further underscores the connection between Goan culture and the cashew. In addition, it is a truly sustainable method of minimising waste in farming.

Zantye's: A Partner in Sustainability

At Zantye's, we believe in sourcing our cashews from farmers who share our values. We partner with Goan farmers who are committed to organic practices, sustainable harvesting, and fair labour standards. When you choose Zantye's cashews, you're not just enjoying a delectable snack; you're supporting a legacy of responsible farming and environmental stewardship. With every bite, you'll taste the difference that history, tradition, and sustainable farming can make. Choose Zantye's and discover the true essence of our organic Goan cashew.