Erzurum, with its historical and cultural heritage, is one of Turkey’s most significant cities and holds a unique position in the field of gastronomy with its geographically indicated products. Erzurum cuisine stands out with its traditional production methods and local flavors, and Kıtlama Sugar is an essential part of this heritage. Receiving geographical indication registration from the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office (TÜRKPATENT) in 2022, Erzurum Kıtlama Sugar holds a significant place in Erzurum's culture with its distinctive structure and unique consumption method.

^{Erzurum Kıtlama Sugar and Sugar Cutting Scissors}

Kıtlama sugar is a special type of hard sugar traditionally consumed with tea. The kıtlama tea-drinking tradition, unique to Erzurum, has shaped the characteristic structure of this sugar. Traditionally, instead of dissolving in the tea, the sugar is placed in the mouth and allowed to dissolve slowly while drinking. This consumption method is widespread in Erzurum and its surroundings and is a cultural element that attracts tourists visiting the region.

Erzurum Kıtlama Sugar differs from other types of sugar with its crystallized structure and special production techniques. Among its key features are its high hardness level, slow dissolution with the tea’s heat, and distinctive flavor profile.

Geographical Indication Registration and Legal Protection

Erzurum Kıtlama Sugar was registered as a Geographical Indication in 2022 under the Mahreç İşareti (Designation of Origin) system. This registration ensures that the product is produced using techniques specific to Erzurum and provides protection for local producers. Thanks to the geographical indication certification, Erzurum kıtlama sugar is safeguarded against imitation while guaranteeing consumers a reliable and authentic product.

Additionally, geographically indicated products contribute to the local economy, supporting Erzurum’s development in tourism, employment, and trade. The legal protection of Erzurum Kıtlama Sugar strengthens its cultural and economic significance while preserving the region’s traditional food heritage.

Production Process and Raw Materials

The production of Erzurum Kıtlama Sugar involves processing sugar extracted from sugar beets. Sugar beet farming is widely practiced in Erzurum and its surroundings, with the Erzurum Sugar Factory serving as a key production hub. Due to the region’s harsh climate and high altitude, Erzurum’s sugar beet cultivation has unique characteristics. The cold climate increases the sugar content of the beets, enhancing their quality and flavor.

The production process consists of the following stages:

1. Harvesting and Processing Sugar Beets – Sugar beets grown in Erzurum and nearby areas are harvested and transported to the Erzurum Sugar Factory for processing.
2. Sugar Crystallization – The sugar syrup extracted from the beets is boiled in special tanks to form crystals, a critical stage that gives kıtlama sugar its hard texture.
3. Molding and Drying – The crystallized sugar is poured into traditional molds, cut into specific shapes, and dried.
4. Packaging – In the final stage, the sugar is packaged under optimal conditions for distribution and consumption.

The Role of Kıtlama Sugar in Erzurum’s Culinary Culture

Erzurum cuisine boasts a rich gastronomic heritage, featuring traditional dishes and desserts. Erzurum Kıtlama Sugar, along with other geographically indicated products such as Erzurum Kadayıf Dolması and Erzurum Su Böreği, is an essential part of the region’s food culture. The people of Erzurum have a strong awareness of preserving and maintaining their culinary traditions, and kıtlama sugar remains a widely consumed staple in daily life.

Erzurum’s geographically indicated products enhance the city’s gastronomic tourism appeal. Kıtlama sugar serves as both a cultural experience and a local souvenir for visitors. The development of gastronomic tourism in Erzurum supports the local economy while providing new marketing opportunities for producers. With its geographical indication certification, kıtlama sugar contributes to the promotion of Erzurum cuisine in national and international markets.

Erzurum Kıtlama Sugar is a distinctive product, both in terms of its production process and unique consumption habits. Produced using traditional methods with the contribution of sugar beet farming and the Erzurum Sugar Factory, this sugar has gained geographical indication certification, reinforcing regional identity.

As a cultural heritage, kıtlama sugar plays a crucial role in promoting Erzurum’s culinary traditions while increasing its touristic value. In this context, kıtlama sugar is not only a cherished product for the people of Erzurum but also an important economic contributor to the local industry.