PANJIM, MARCH 24
Feni, a typical Goan alcoholic brew, which has been manufactured with local expertise for generations from cashew fruit, is now protected under the Geographical Indication (GI) status.
The Department of Science, Technology and Environment here yesterday received the GI certificate from the Mumbai-based Controller General of Patents, Designs, Trademarks and Geographical Indications.
The Feni brand was registered in the name of Goa Cashew Feni Manufacturers and Bottlers Association, Tivim Industrial Estate, Mapusa, North Goa and the S&T Department.
One could experience the sweet and pleasant aroma of the liquor permeating through the interiors of Goa amid cashew plantations, abundant in this erstwhile Portuguese colony.
Tons of cashew fruits are crushed every summer and the juice is processed to manufacture the precious liquor sold in different brands which have a huge market both in India and abroad.
Feni is considered to have some medicinal properties also. Being the second most strongest liquor after the Russian Vodka, Feni is sought after by the visiting foreigner tourists.
The Feni is also made of the coconut cream also, but it lacks the flavour and fragrance of cashew brew.