Zhalantun White Melon Seeds

Zhalantun White Melon Seeds

Zhalantun white melon seeds are a product with geographical indication status.

　　The cultivation history of Zhalantun white melon seeds dates back to the 1920s. Local rural areas have long had the habit of growing them, making them one of the region’s exported agricultural products. In 1966, the state began purchasing Zhalantun white melon seeds in the Inner Mongolia region, with the foreign trade department organizing their export. During the 1960s and 1970s, the annual production of Zhalantun white melon seeds ranged from 15,000 to 30,000 kilograms, with 20,000 kilograms being exported. After introducing superior varieties from Tianjin in 1970, an export production base was established. Advanced planting methods were adopted, leading to a sharp increase in white melon seed yield.

　　Also known as winter melon seeds. They are the seeds of cucurbitaceous vegetables such as pumpkin, zucchini, horned melon, squash, and other types of melons. The seeds are white in color, hence the name "white melon seeds."

　　Functions

　　White melon seeds have a relatively high oil content and are commonly used as a daily snack. Roasted white melon seeds can be eaten directly or seasoned to make multi-flavor seeds that are delicious. They can also be used as an ingredient in pastries. White melon seeds are rich in protein, fat, and vitamins. In traditional Chinese medicine, they are used as an effective deworming agent for intestinal parasites, without the side effects of chemical drugs. They are also one of the export commodities.

　　The production area of Zhalantun white melon seeds is located at the southern end of Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. It lies against the Greater Khingan Mountains and the Hulunbuir Grassland, facing China's northeast provinces. The region enjoys a superior geographical location and serves as a vital north-south passage in the country. Known for its rugged mountains, peculiar rocks, beautiful waters, lush forests, rare animals, and unique birds, it is hailed as the "back garden of Northeast China." On December 20, 2008, it was awarded the title of “International Tourism Famous County” by the Boao International Tourism Forum. The total area of the Zhalantun white melon seed production region is 12,100 square kilometers, encompassing 12 townships and offices, including Nansumu Ewenki Ethnic Township, Halasu Office, Woniuhe Town, Dawoer Ethnic Township, Gaotaizi Office, Genghis Khan Town, Zhonghe Office, Samajie Ewenki Ethnic Township, Muguchi Town, Guanmenshan Office, Sijilahuhu Office, and Wadi Town, along with their 95 administrative villages. The area has a population of 321,000, covers a land area of 12,100 square kilometers, and has a white melon seed production area of 13,000 hectares, yielding 15,000 tons annually with an output value of 120 million yuan. Its geographical coordinates are between 121°18′21″E to 123°47′10″E and 47°35′41″N to 48°16′24″N, with elevations ranging from 1417.5 to 186 meters.