Xuanzhou Chestnuts

Xuanzhou Chestnuts

　　　A famous specialty of Anhui. Produced in Guangde, Ningguo and Jing counties in the Xuancheng region. "Xuanzhou Chestnuts" have a long history and excellent quality. In 1602, Su Song wrote in *Illustrated Pharmacopoeia* (*Tujing Bencao*): "Chestnuts grow everywhere, but those from Yanzhou and Xuanzhou are the best." Currently, the concentrated planting area in this region spans approximately 850,000 mu, accounting for 60% of the province’s total area. Major varieties include "Chushu Hong," "Dahongpao," "Dayouli," "Xiaoyouli," and "Jiuyuehan" from Guangde County, as well as "Wuzao," "Ruancizao," and "Erxinzao" from Ningguo County. Chestnuts are highly nutritious, containing 10.7% protein, 7.4% fat, 70.1% sugar and starch, 2.9% crude fiber, 2.4% ash, along with ample vitamin B and more. "Xuanzhou Chestnuts" are renowned both domestically and internationally for their three distinctive qualities—sweetness, fragrance, and glutinous texture—and are collectively referred to as "Chinese Sweet Chestnuts" in the global market.