Disappearing Himalayan Foods That We Need to Preserve Before They Go Extinct!

Rich in flora and fauna, the Himalayan region in India has always been proudly growing various food and plant species that are unique to their region. However, call it the climatic change that the world is experiencing or rampant urbanisation that is ultimately, costing a few of the species their existence. Here, we are talking about a few Himalayan foods that might be on the brink of disappearing, as highlighted by the locals and experts. 

Tiruchuk 

It is considered to be an ancient berry that offers a tangy taste and grows at a very high altitude. According to a food festival, 'Himalayan Bounty', organised in Munsiyari, which is popular for its scenic beauty and abundance of food variety, this Himalayan Raspberry is disappearing because of climate change. 

Munsiyari Rajma 

A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is not just supposed to bifurcate the food variety as special to a particular region; it also throws light on conserving it for future generations. However, Munsiyari Rajma, which is a GI-tagged legume can be on the verge of disappearing. This is cultivated at 2,200 metres and is popular for its exceptional taste, nutrition and aroma. 

Madua

Madua, the Himalayan superfood, is another variety that is suffering the risk of disappearance due to changing climatic conditions. Also called finger millet, it is rich in calcium, protein, and minerals and is used for making cakes, puddings, breads and more. While Madua is easily available on e-commerce platforms to consumers, the locals of the Himalayan region warn of their reducing existence. 

Linguda 

The Fiddlehead Fern, or as it is called locally, Linguda, a wild and flavourful variety, is a foraged vegetable that is grown in hidden spots in the Western Himalayas. However, the edible fronds emerge only during the rainy season when the environment is moisture-rich. One can find these in the low-salt regions at higher altitudes in this season. It is popularly used as a vegetable and even a pickle. 

Dunchka

A common staple with food in Indian homes is a chutney and Dunchka is one such in the Himalayan homes. Made of Timur, or Himalayan pepper, it is found in the upper Himalayas. With very little knowledge about this regional variety, even the reasons for its gradual disappearance are unknown. 

Golden Berry 

It can be called the rare berries from the Himalayan region. Available only in May and June, Golden Berries are a rare and luscious product from the gift of the Himalayas. It is also called Golden Raspberry. These have been recorded as a rich source of phenolics, Beta carotenes, vitamin C and many other important antioxidants. Even their leaves have healthy properties. 

Himalayan Trout 

Talking about the non-vegetarian dish, Himalayan Trout or Trout Fish is a cultural element on the verge of disappearance. It is low in calories but high in protein. Although it is available for consumption now, the alarm for its conservation is already on that requires attention and redressal.