Zhuta Cockles

Zhuta Cockles

Zhuta Cockles is a geographical indication certification trademark.

　　Yunxiao County boasts a superior natural environment, characterized by a humid subtropical monsoon climate with abundant sunlight and heat. The area has a well-developed water system and plentiful freshwater resources. Located within the region, the mouth of the Zhangjiang River not only hosts a national-level mangrove nature reserve but also serves as a brackish water zone where seawater and freshwater meet. The seabed conditions, climate, and water density are ideal, and the water quality is classified as Grade I. This unique geographical location and superior natural environment produce Zhuta cockles at the mouth of the Zhangjiang River, which are known for their balanced salinity, delicious taste, tender and crispy texture, rich nutrition, bright red cockle blood, and a shelf life of up to 15 days. These qualities have won them widespread consumer favor. Regular consumption is believed to aid digestion and invigorate the spleen, nourish blood and beautify the complexion. They are also considered a premium gift for family and friends during holidays or a fine accompaniment to alcoholic drinks when hosting guests.

　　The cultivation of Zhuta cockles has a long history, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. It is one of the main seafood production areas in Zhangzhou City. According to historical records such as the “Zhangzhou Fisheries Annals” and the “Yunxiao County Annals,” during the Jiajing era (1522–1566) of the Ming Dynasty, cockles produced in Yunxiao were already renowned and highly sought after in the regions of Zhejiang, Fujian, and Guangdong.

　　In August 1956, the Fujian Provincial Aquatic Bureau established a state-owned aquaculture farm in Zhuta Township, Yunxiao County. This farm received recognition from the National Fisheries Ministry and an award certificate from the State Council. In 1972, the Provincial Fisheries Research Institute successfully conducted artificial breeding trials for cockles in Zhuta Village, Yunxiao County. After 1992, aquatic science and technology professionals in Zhangzhou City and Yunxiao County conducted systematic research and experiments on cockle farming, adopting methods such as tidal flat water storage for cockle culture and pioneering a new model of mixed farming shrimp with cockles. Yunxiao County took on the “National Agricultural Harvest Plan – High-Yield and High-Efficiency Cultivation Technology Project for 10,000 Mu of Zhuta Cockles,” which further promoted the growth and expansion of Zhuta cockle farming. Through years of active development, Zhuta cockle farming has become a key pillar industry in Yunxiao County, with an annual output exceeding 7,500 tons and total output value reaching 300 million yuan, making the county one of the leading cockle producers in China.

　　In light of the characteristics, history, and quality of Zhuta cockles, the Yunxiao County Aquaculture Association applied to the National Trademark Office in July 2010 to register a geographical indication certification trademark and obtained the trademark certificate. Over the years, the leading enterprise Yunxiao Zhongzhang Aquatic Co., Ltd.’s Zhuta cockles have been certified as pollution-free products by the Ministry of Agriculture, and have been showcased multiple times at cross-strait agricultural expos and various other exhibitions representing the county’s Zhuta cockles, receiving positive acclaim.