The Devgad Taluka Amba Utpadak Sahakari Sanstha Maryadit, a cooperative of mango growers in India, has adopted a unique identification (UID) system to ensure the authenticity of Alphonso mangoes. This initiative is designed to protect consumers from counterfeit products and maintain the reputation of Devgad Alphonso mangoes.
In partnership with Sun Solutions, a Mumbai-based firm, the cooperative has launched a verification system. Each Geographical Indication (GI)-registered farmer in Devgad is allocated TP Seal UIDs based on production capacity. These stickers are applied to all market-bound mangoes, providing traceability and authenticity.
The stickers feature a unique alphanumeric code in two parts. Consumers verify authenticity by sending a photo of the sticker via WhatsApp to +91 9167 668899. The system then requests the second part of the code from the sticker's back, which splits upon removal. If the entered code matches the system's UID, consumers receive an automatic response with details like the farmer's name, village, and GI registration number.
This digital initiative aims to reinforce consumer confidence and protect the global reputation of Devgad Alphonso mangoes. By ensuring traceability, the cooperative seeks to eliminate counterfeit products, preserving the quality and legacy of this fruit.
Source: The Live Nagpur