Gürün Mulberry Molasses

Gürün Mulberry Molasses is a geographically indicated variety of molasses produced from white mulberry fruit (Morus Alba) grown at an altitude of 1200–1400 meters in the Gürün district of Sivas Province. The product, registered under the Industrial Property Law No. 6769 as a geographical indication, was applied for on 20.11.2017 and officially registered on 30.09.2021. The registration was carried out by the Gürün District Governorship, and the packaging bears the label “Gürün Mulberry Molasses” along with the geographical indication emblem. If packaging does not allow for its inclusion, the label and emblem must be clearly displayed at the production facility.

Characteristics

Gürün Mulberry Molasses is derived from mulberries cultivated under the high-altitude geographical conditions of the Gürün district. The region’s elevation of 1200–1400 meters, significant day-night temperature differences, and a flowering-to-fruit-ripening period of approximately 20 days increase the sugar content and enhance the quality of the mulberries. The molasses has a dark brown color and a homogeneous texture, with no foreign odors, bitterness, or sourness. No additives are used in its production.

The chemical and physical properties of the molasses are as follows:

• Ash content: Maximum 2.5%
• HMF (Hydroxymethylfurfural) value: Maximum 100 mg/L
• Total sugar content: Maximum 66%
• Dry matter content: Minimum 72%

Production Method

Gürün Mulberry Molasses is produced using two traditional methods from mulberries harvested between early June and the end of August. Neither method uses any additives, and production strictly follows traditional practices.

First Method

Cloth sheets are spread beneath mulberry trees, and fruits are collected by shaking the branches. The harvested mulberries are immediately placed into cotton-thread straining bags and pressed using clamps to extract the juice. The juice is boiled at medium heat in a copper cauldron, during which surface foam is removed. After boiling is complete, the juice is left to rest in the cauldron overnight. The next day, it is poured in a thin layer onto trays and exposed to sunlight for two days. On the third day, the filtered molasses is filled into containers suitable for food contact, such as tin cans, jars, or drums.

Second Method

Mulberries are again collected using cloth sheets and immediately placed in a cauldron with water added at one-quarter of the fruit’s weight. The mixture is boiled at medium heat, and surface foam is removed. The boiled fruits are transferred to a straining bag and pressed using clamps to extract the juice. The juice is collected in a container and left to rest overnight. The next day, it is spread in a thin layer on trays and exposed to sunlight for two days. On the third day, it is filtered and filled into containers suitable for food contact. The molasses is stored in a cool, dry place before being marketed.

Inspection

The production and quality standards of Gürün Mulberry Molasses are monitored by an inspection body established under the coordination of the Gürün District Governorship. This body consists of one expert each from the Gürün District Governorship, the Gürün Chamber of Commerce and Crafts, the Gürün District Agricultural Chamber, the Gürün District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, and the Gürün Municipality. Inspections are conducted annually during the harvest period, June to August, and additional inspections are carried out as needed or upon complaint. The following elements are verified during inspections:

• Documentation verifying that the mulberries used in production originate from the Gürün district and are grown at an altitude of 1200–1400 meters (e.g. purchase invoices, farmer registration forms).
• Color, taste, and aroma of the molasses (sensory evaluation).
• HMF value, total sugar content, ash content, and dry matter content (laboratory analysis).
• Compliance of the production method with established standards.
• Appropriateness of storage conditions.
• Correct use of the label “Gürün Mulberry Molasses” and the geographical indication emblem.

The inspection body may obtain expert support or procure services from public or private institutions when necessary. The Gürün District Governorship, as the registering authority, conducts legal proceedings to protect the rights associated with the geographical indication.

Geographical Boundary

Gürün Mulberry Molasses is produced exclusively within the boundaries of the Gürün district of Sivas Province. This geographical boundary is one of the fundamental elements ensuring the product’s uniqueness and quality.