PROTECTED CROATIAN AGRI-FOOD PRODUCTS, Lički krumpir

Lički krumpir The quality of lički krumpir (Lika potatoes) is mainly associated with the geographic region where it is grown. Its distinctive floury taste and crisp, dry texture, a result of its high dry matter content of at least 19% and its high starch content, set lički krumpir apart from potatoes grown in other regions. Lički krumpir owes its distinctive features to the specific climate of the region, where it is grown at a minimal altitude of 400 m, with sunny days and crisp nights helping sugar accumulate in the tubers and increase its dry matter content. These potatoes can have a smooth or coarse peel, yellow, brown or reddish epidermis, and light yellow to yellow flesh. The elongated oval tubers measure between 35 and 90 cm. To preserve its traditional appearance, lički krumpir is not washed before it is shipped off to stores. Rather, the dirt is brushed off prior to packing. It owes its Protected Geographic Indication not only to its quality, a result of the distinctive natural characteristics of the region where it is grown, but also to the product name’s reputation, a result of the long-standing potato-growing tradition in Lika. Potatoes still have a special status in collective memory, everyday use, and the understanding of quality for the locals, who used them as a bread replacement. The reputation of lički krumpir peaked at the beginning of the century with the organisation of a number of gastronomy and culture events in the region. These events, the most famous of which are the Lika Potato Days, continue to be organised still. The name lički krumpir received a Protected Geographic Indication from the European Union on 30 September 2015, protecting it against any form of abuse across the EU. Only products made according to the product specification for the Protected Geographic Indication lički krumpir, whose producers have a valid certificate of compliance with the product specification, issued by the relevant authority, can be marketed under this name.