Ryukyu Moromi su is an amber-colored, acidic beverage native to Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, and protected by a Geographical Indication (GI). It is produced from a base solution obtained by pressing and filtering the moromi (pulp) residue left over from the production process of Ryukyu Awamori, Okinawa Prefecture's traditional alcoholic beverage. Because its primary acidic component is citric acid, it lacks the pungency and acetic odor of traditional vinegars.
History
The production method for Ryukyu Awamori was transmitted to the Ryukyu Kingdom (present-day Okinawa Prefecture) in the 14th or 15th century, with various theories suggesting its origins in Thailand, other parts of Southeast Asia, or China's Fujian Province. Traditionally, moromi residue was primarily used as pig feed or field fertilizer. The first Ryukyu Moromi su product was released in 1973. This product was made by pressing and filtering moromi residue and mixing the base solution with brown sugar. Ryukyu Moromi su production in Okinawa Prefecture has continued uninterrupted for 43 years.
About Ryukyu Moromi Su (地理的表示産品情報発信サイト)
Production Process and Composition
Ryukyu Moromi su is produced by pressing and filtering the "Ryukyu Awamori moromi residue" to create an undiluted base solution. The product consists of this undiluted base solution or blends to which ingredients such as flavorings, fruit juice, or herbal extracts extracts are added. However, in the case of a blended product, the undiluted base solution must constitute more than 75% of the final product's gross weight. All production stages take place in Okinawa Prefecture. Because Okinawa's year-round mild and humid subtropical climate poses a risk of undesirable bacterial growth during brewing, black koji mold is used in Awamori production to prevent this; this tradition has been inherited in Ryukyu Moromi su production.
Geographical Indication Information (GI)
Ryukyu Moromi su is registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in Japan. The protection date is November 10, 2017. The production area is designated as Okinawa Prefecture. The applicant institution is the Ryūkyū Moromisu Business Cooperative.
