Source: News on Air
Subject: Miscellaneous
Context: APEDA facilitated the first direct export consignment of GI-tagged Salem Sago from Tamil Nadu to Canada, marking a major milestone for producer-led exports.
About Salem Sago (Javvarisi):
What it is?
- Salem Sago (Javvarisi) is a starch-based food product made from tapioca roots (cassava), where wet starch is processed into small pearl-like granules.
- It is widely consumed as a staple and is also used in multiple industries such as food processing, textiles, pharmaceuticals and construction.
Origin:
- Originates from Salem district, Tamil Nadu, known as the “Land of Sago”.
- The region has favourable conditions such as high tapioca yield, abundant sunshine and established processing units.
- Over 80% of India’s sago production comes from the Salem region and nearby belts like Erode, Namakkal and Dharmapuri.
GI Tag:
- Geographical Indication (GI) tag granted in March 2023.
- GI registration obtained by The Salem Starch and Sago Manufacturers’ Service Industrial Co-operative Society Ltd (SAGOSERVE) under the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Key Characteristics:
- Tapioca-based product: Produced from starch extracted from tapioca roots containing about 30–35% starch.
- High regional productivity: Tapioca yield in Salem reaches 25–30 tonnes/ha, among the highest globally.
- Distinct physical traits: Small granules generally ranging between 2–4.5 mm in size with low calorific value (~310 kcal/100 g).
- Efficient processing: Around 1 kg of sago can be produced from about 5 kg of tapioca tubers.
- Multi-sector usage: Used in food, paper, textile, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, construction and alcohol industries.
Significance:
- Enhances export opportunities for GI-certified Indian agri products.
- Improves price realisation and income for farmers, including tribal communities involved in tapioca cultivation.
