Mersin traditions: Pomegranate molasses production and family business continuity

In Mersin, Turkey, the traditional production of pomegranate molasses has commenced following the harvest. In the Silifke district, known for its registered pomegranate varieties, Yörük women are utilizing traditional methods to process the fruit. The process involves separating the seeds, extracting the juice, and boiling the liquid in large cauldrons over wood fires for 10 to 13 hours to achieve the desired consistency.

This production serves to prevent waste by utilizing cracked fruits that are often unsuitable for market sale, providing additional income for families. The resulting pomegranate molasses is sold at prices ranging between 500 and 600 lira per kilogram.

Separately, in the Yenişehir district of Mersin, a 24-year-old computer programming graduate, Ekin Şahin, has taken over a family business specializing in the sewing, sale, and rental of traditional folk dance costumes. The business, established by Şahin's parents 24 years ago to address a shortage of costumes for folk dance performances, has expanded to serve multiple provinces, particularly during national holidays.