Background and Relevance
Nuevo León, a Mexican state known for its rich culinary traditions and agricultural prowess, is taking significant steps to elevate its oregano production. The state’s Secretary of Tourism, Maricarmen Martínez Villarreal, is collaborating with the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL) to seek official recognition for the oregano grown in the Sierra de Picachos, located in the municipality of Higueras.
The Oregano and Its Significance
Oregano, known as the “verde oro” (green gold) for its medicinal properties and central role in Nuevo León’s gastronomy, is an indigenous plant to the Sierra de Picachos. This region’s unique climate, with the plant growing at 2,500 meters above sea level, contributes to its distinct flavor and quality. After harvesting, the oregano is taken to controlled environments at 500 meters above sea level for drying, ensuring a sustainable four-harvest-per-year cycle.
The Denomination of Origin Initiative
The state’s tourism secretary emphasized that obtaining the Denomination of Origin (DO) status would provide several benefits. It would add value to the product, open new markets, and strengthen rural economies. Martínez Villarreal stated, “With the Denomination of Origin, our oregano will have a competitive advantage in other markets and generate direct income and new opportunities for producing communities.”
Alignment with State Tourism Plan
This initiative aligns with the Plan Sectorial de Turismo 2021-2027, focusing on sustainable tourism, regional development, and competitiveness. By coordinating with the Instituto Mexicano de la Propiedad Industrial (IMPI) alongside producers, collectors, and agricultural authorities, Nuevo León aims to secure this recognition that will bolster rural economies and position the state as a renowned gastronomic and agroindustrial destination.
Key Actions and Collaboration
- Collaboration: The Secretaría de Turismo de Nuevo León is working closely with the UANL and various stakeholders, including producers, collectors, and agricultural authorities.
- Technical Study: A comprehensive technical study has been developed to support the formal request to the IMPI, highlighting the unique qualities of the Higueras oregano.
- IMPI Application: The state’s tourism department is handling the application process with the IMPI, aiming to secure the Denomination of Origin status for the region’s oregano.
- Sustainable Cultivation: Producers in Higueras strive for sustainable cultivation, allowing for four harvests annually while maintaining the plant’s high quality.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Denomination of Origin? It’s a certification that recognizes a product as unique to a specific region, allowing it to compete with advantages in national and international markets.
- Why is Nuevo León pursuing this recognition? To add value to their oregano, open new markets, and strengthen rural economies while aligning with their tourism development plan.
- Who is involved in this initiative? The Secretaría de Turismo de Nuevo León, the UANL, producers, collectors, agricultural authorities, and the IMPI are all collaborating on this project.
- What makes the Higueras oregano special? Grown at high altitudes in the Sierra de Picachos, this oregano benefits from a unique climate that contributes to its distinct flavor and quality.
