Assessing the impact of regional coffee varieties on the potential of regional gastronomic tourism: Kenger coffee
International Journal of Gastronomy and Food Science, cilt.45, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 45
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.ijgfs.2026.101589
- Dergi Adı: International Journal of Gastronomy and Food Science
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Gastronomy tourism, Geographical indication, Kenger coffee, Regional coffees
- Sivas Cumhuriyet Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Among the objectives of this study are to increase the recognition of Kenger coffee and to support its registration as a geographical indication, with the aim of ensuring the preservation of local values that are in danger of being forgotten. While evaluating the potential of local coffee varieties for culinary tourism, the study aims to examine the role of Kenger coffee in this context. The study data were collected using a mixed-methods approach. In this context, interview techniques and sensory analysis methods were employed. (i) In the quantitative research method, kenger coffee-produced from the seeds of the kenger plant-was roasted at different temperature levels (low, medium, and high) and then subjected to sensory analysis by 13 panelists. For the sensory analysis studies, panelists were selected using a purposive random sampling method; they included individuals with an interest in local coffee varieties or working in this field, possessing a strong and trained sense of taste. (ii) Within the scope of the qualitative research method, structured interviews were conducted with 9 expert participants located within the borders of Sivas Province, selected using a purposive random sampling method. When examining overall liking and acceptability scores, it was observed that the coffee samples scored below the average liking value. An analysis of the data obtained through qualitative research indicates that the local population is aware of the geographically indicated products of Sivas Province and the kenger plant; it is anticipated that kenger coffee has a high potential for obtaining a geographical indication, and that, should it receive such an indication, it would contribute to the region in numerous areas, including economic, social, and cultural dimensions. In this context, it is considered necessary to undertake product development efforts to increase the marketability of kenger coffee. Additionally, it is recommended that promotional activities be carried out through stakeholder collaboration to preserve the product's cultural identity, enhance its visibility, and ensure its sustainability.