Cashew nut earns first geographical indication highlighting production from Serra do Mel

The cashew nut from Rio Grande do Norte has officially entered the map of Brazil's geographical indications. The product received the first registration in the indication of origin (IP) for the municipality of Serra do Mel, a national reference in the culture. The recognition had the support of Sebrae-RN, which works in the restructuring of the production chain and the opening of new markets for small producers and agribusinesses. Planted in the 1970s, cashew production found in Serra do Mel the ideal conditions to grow: favorable soil, suitable climate, and organization of family farming integrated with small-scale agribusinesses. With about 13 thousand hectares cultivated, the municipality is today the largest producer in the state. More than 80% of the processed cashew nut there is exported, which moves the local economy, generates jobs, and stimulates rural tourism. The region also hosts the traditional Cashew Festival and boasts the title of Capital of the Cashew Nut. "The ...