Traditional spice remains part of cultural heritage

On their 2.5-hectare farm, the couple loosened the soil to protect crops where irrigation was impossible. Their harvest exceeded previous years in size and quality, offering encouragement as Hungary’s traditional paprika industry faces increasing environmental and economic challenges.

Paprika remains an important symbol of Hungarian identity, with historic production centres Kalocsa and Szeged holding EU protected designation of origin status.

At Kalocsa’s annual fair, visitors celebrated the spice through traditional cooking competitions featuring stews and fish soups.

Hungary’s agriculture ministry aims to strengthen producers’ competitiveness as cultivation faces challenges from climate change, imports and labour shortages.