Arapgir Pohmutu / Pohmut

Arapgir Pohmutu / Pohmut is a traditional confection unique to the Arapgir district of Malatya Province, primarily composed of dried mulberries. This product is officially registered with a geographical indication mark. It is prepared by grinding dried mulberries into a flour and then adding Hekimhan walnut, almond, and Malatya apricot kernel. The production process depends on the region’s climate, agricultural characteristics, and local craftsmanship, with all stages carried out exclusively within the boundaries of Arapgir district.

Distinguishing Features

Arapgir Pohmutu / Pohmut is primarily prepared for consumption during the winter season. It holds a historical place in Arapgir’s culinary culture and carries both traditional and cultural significance for the local community. The origin of the product is rooted in a unique culinary heritage shaped by local agricultural production. Particularly during winter months, Arapgir Pohmutu / Pohmut occupies an important role in dietary habits, distinguished by its high nutritional value and the use of region-specific ingredients.

The most distinctive feature of the product is the mulberry flour obtained from drying mulberries grown in Arapgir and used without pits. Additionally, the Hekimhan Walnut, protected under registration number 432, and the Malatya Apricot Kernel, protected under registration number 573, are key components that reinforce the product’s geographical identity. Almond contributes to the product’s characteristic texture. The product can be produced using a single nut or a combination of these ingredients, offering flexibility to meet consumer preferences.

Production Method

The production of Arapgir Pohmutu / Pohmut is a process specific to the region’s climate and agricultural conditions and requires considerable skill. The production cycle begins in mid-June when nets are stretched over mulberry trees. Ripe mulberries naturally fall onto the nets and are left to dry for three to five days, losing approximately 30–40% of their moisture. Subsequently, the mulberries are spread out in another area and dried completely over approximately 20 days.

Once fully dried, the mulberries are pounded using wooden mallets on stone mortars or iron grinders. The pounding continues until the mulberries reach a flour-like consistency, after which the mixture is sieved. Following sifting, the mulberry flour is pounded again until it achieves a paste-like texture. At this stage, whole Hekimhan walnuts are added, and pounding continues for approximately 15 minutes. Almonds and Malatya apricot kernels are then introduced, and all ingredients are pounded together to release their oils and form a cohesive paste.

Although the product is primarily made by processing dried mulberries together with other ingredients, it can also be produced using only almond, only Hekimhan walnut, or only Malatya apricot kernel, based on preference.

To produce 1,000 grams of Arapgir Pohmutu / Pohmut, approximately 750 grams of dried mulberries and 250 grams of Hekimhan walnut, almond, or Malatya apricot kernel (or a mixture thereof) are used. Immediately after production, the product is placed without delay into food-safe ceramic or plastic containers, which are then used for sale. The shelf life of the product is three months.

Geographical Boundary

Arapgir Pohmutu / Pohmut is a composite of the region’s unique climate, soil, and vegetation conditions, combined with the traditional knowledge and production skills of the local population. The reputation of this product is directly linked not only to the regional characteristics of its raw materials but also to the production techniques and craftsmanship passed down through generations in Arapgir. All stages of production must be carried out exclusively within the boundaries of Malatya Province, Arapgir District. This geographical connection forms the fundamental basis for the product’s registration as a geographical indication.

Monitoring and Control

The production and market placement of Arapgir Pohmutu / Pohmut are subject to regular monitoring under the framework of geographical indication regulations. Monitoring is coordinated by the Arapgir Municipality and conducted by a panel of three experts from the Arapgir Municipality, the Arapgir Tourism Development Cooperative, and the Arapgir District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry.

Monitoring is carried out at least once annually, but may be conducted at any time if deemed necessary or upon complaint. During the monitoring process, the following are thoroughly examined:

• The suitability of raw materials used in production,
• Compliance of production with the technical specifications of the geographical indication,
• Correct use of the designation “Arapgir Pohmutu / Pohmut” and the geographical indication emblem on packaging or within production facilities.

The monitoring authority may obtain support or services from public or private institutions or from experts employed by such institutions when necessary. The entity that registered the geographical indication is responsible for undertaking all necessary legal procedures to protect the rights associated with the geographical indication.

Packaging and Usage

In marketing and sales, the packaging of Arapgir Pohmutu / Pohmut must display the designation Arapgir Pohmutu / Pohmut alongside the geographical indication emblem. In cases where these cannot be placed on the packaging, they must be prominently displayed within the production facility in a manner easily visible to consumers.