Approximately 95% of "Altai honey" is not originated from the Altai region.
It seems a pattern's emerging with some Russian products, like Altai honey and Adyghean cheese. These goods boast geographical designations, but, according to a report by Interfax, they're not always crafted within their designated regions.
Case in point? Altai honey. An advisor to Rosselkhoznadzor, Elena Tsvetkova, revealed that 95% of Altai honey is produced outside Altai and the Republic of Altai, despite promising regulations requiring it to be produced within the Great Caucasus foothills in Adygea.
Similar issues surface with Adyghean cheese, another product that, theoretically, should be made exclusively in Adygea. However, systems show the cheese is produced in 58 regions by 218 companies, with only 26 producers in Adygea, accounting for just 60% of national production. Tsvetkova divulged that their milk often comes from other locations, like Belgorod, Voronezh, and Tatarstan.
One reason for this could be the lack of strict enforcement surrounding geographical indications (GIs) in Russia. There might not be severe legal consequences for producing GI products outside their designated areas. Economic and practical considerations could also play a role, making it more financially viable to manufacture GI goods in regions with lower costs or easier access to essential resources.
Lastly, the demand for these GI products could sometimes exceed the supply capacity within the designated regions, prompting producers to expand production to other areas, possibly impacting the authenticity of the products.
With Rosselkhoznadzor promoting the development of producing regions themselves through the use of geographical names, let's hope we'll soon see more Altai honey and Adyghean cheese honor their traditional roots. But until then, remember there's always a chance those sweet honey jars or cheese wheels aren't locally sourced!
- The questionable authenticity of Altai honey and Adyghean cheese raises concerns about the accuracy of other geographical indication (GI) products in Russia, particularly in the areas of finance, business, and lifestyle, such as wine, tea, or salts, which could potentially be mislabeled as well.
- As the demand for geographical indication (GI) products with unique flavors and histories continues to grow, it's essential for consumers to be mindful about the food-and-drink items they purchase, ensuring they support local producers and maintain the integrity of traditional recipes and production methods.
