Shenchi Flaxseed Oil

Shenchi Flaxseed Oil

Shenchi Flaxseed Oil is a protected geographical indication product.

　　‍“Shenchi Flaxseed Oil” refers to the edible oil pressed from flaxseeds grown in Shenchi County, Shanxi Province. The Chronicles of Chinese Industries: Shanxi Volume records that the oil pressing industry in Shenchi began around 1488 (during the Hongzhi reign of the Ming Dynasty). The Book of Mashi Agriculture by Qi Junzao, Minister of War during the Qing Tongzhi era, states “oil comes from Shenchi” and describes it as “fragrant, rich in flavor.” By the late Qing Dynasty, there were nearly 100 oil mills across the county. Its unique and traditional oil pressing technique preserves the natural quality of Shenchi Flaxseed Oil. The Shanxi Specialties book notes the characteristics of the oil as “does not sediment over time, has no off-flavors when consumed raw, produces minimal smoke when fried, colors food quickly, and has a fragrant taste; it is pure yellow and transparent, highly nutritious, and has medicinal value.” Modern medicine believes that long-term consumption can help prevent and treat conditions such as hypertension and arteriosclerosis.

　　“Shenchi Flaxseed Oil” comes from the flaxseeds of Shenchi. The Essential Techniques for the Welfare of the People (Qi Min Yao Shu) records that “this crop suits barren land.” That is, it thrives in unfertilized soil. Flax has a short growth cycle, is cold-resistant and tolerant of poor soils, and prefers low temperatures—qualities well suited to Shenchi’s natural conditions of short frost-free periods, infertile land, high altitude, cold climate, and sandy winds. Flax cultivation in Shenchi began in the Eastern Han Dynasty and became one of the staple crops essential for local survival, as celebrated in verse: “No matter the mountain fields or paddy fields, flax, wheat, and beans are sown year after year. The people are simple and honest, all known for their sincerity; the fragrance of flax and oats fills the hills.”

　　In December 2010, it was designated as a national protected geographical indication product after review by the State Administration for Quality Supervision and Inspection and Quarantine.

　　Production Area Scope

　　　　The protected geographical indication production area for Shenchi Flaxseed Oil includes the administrative regions of nine towns in Shenchi County, Shanxi Province: Yijing Town, Bajiao Town, Donghu Township, Taipingzhuang Township, Hezhi Township, Hubei Township, Dayanbei Township, Changzhen Township, and Liebao Township.