CSQA is the new certification body, established by a decree of the Italian Agricultural Food Safety Authority (MASAF) , for the Ciliegia dell'Etna DOP (DOP) cherry , a premium fruit grown in the foothills of Mount Etna, in the province of Catania. This is the first DOP cherry entrusted to the certification body, which, together with the other IGPs already inspected, consolidates and strengthens national oversight of the cherry sector.
A niche Geographical Indication that strengthens the reputation of Sicily's basket of Geographical Indications , made up of 67 PDO and PGI products in the food and wine sector, an economic value of 581 million euros and the involvement of over 17,000 operators.
The Etna DOP Cherry has historically stood out for its medium-large size , bright red color, firm, crunchy flesh, and sweet, balanced flavor, determined by its low acidity and good sugar content. These excellent characteristics are also influenced by the long ripening times due to the progressive rise in altitude above sea level of the cultivation land in the Etna volcano area.
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Source: Aska News.it