Friday Nov 15, 2024
Friday Nov 15, 2024
Friday, 4 November 2011 02:47 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa participated as Chief Guest at the workshop for minor export crop entrepreneurs held at Intercontinental hotel on 2 November.
During early historical times Sri Lanka known as Taprobane, was world renowned for its quality spices. During ancient times the Greeks, Romans and the Arabic maintained their links with Sri Lanka through the spice trade.
In the 16th century a part of Ceylon was occupied by Portuguese who soon began trading in cinnamon and other spices.
The Dutch and British
followed bringing with them their own history and influences, forming a strong Western presence which created a history of food expressed with spices which can be tasted in the dishes today.
The importance of spices in the minor export crops of Sri Lanka consist of fragrant Clove, Cinnamon, Cardamom, Nutmeg, Mace and pepper, for which Sri
Lanka has been famed since ancient times, thrive in the hills.
Also the spices are use in Ayurveda in Sri Lanka, the wealth and varieties of Sri Lankan spices provide ideal grounds for trad tional Ayurveda.
Herbs, spices and their natural oils figure prominently in
Ayurveda massage and alternative therapies.
Sri Lankan spices are used in a range of perfume, soap and other cosmetics, aromatherapy essential oils.
Minister of Small Export Crops Promotion Reginald Cooray, Minister of Technology and Research Pavithra Wanniarachi and Deputy Minister, Ministry of Industry and Commerce Jayaratne Herath also participated at this occasion.
Pix by Chaminda Hittatiya
