Producer: Mehak Pal Editor: Sujata Singh

Odisha's Red Ant Chutney: All You Need to Know 

Odisha's Kai Chutney was awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag on January 2, 2024.

Kai chutney locally is made by tribal groups in Odisha's Mayurbhanj region.

Red weaver ants are known for their extremely painful sting, capable of causing blisters on the skin.

These ants are commonly found in the forests of Mayurbhanj, including the Similipal forests, which constitute Asia's second-largest biosphere.

The ants and their eggs are gathered from their nests and cleaned before being used. The chutney is prepared by grinding a mixture of salt, ginger, garlic, and chilies.

The chutney is believed to be a good source of nutrients like protein, calcium, zinc, vitamin B-12, iron, magnesium, potassium, etc.