Russia to introduce new GOST for persimmons

Starting November 1, a new GOST (state standard) for persimmons will come into effect in Russia, according to Rosstandart documents.

Under the new rules, the fruit, regardless of the variety, must be whole, firm, clean, with stalks cut at the base of the fruit and with unseparated and undamaged sepals. The shape and color must be uniform and consistent with the variety. The flesh may be either dense or jelly-like.

Additionally, the fruit must have a specific taste characteristic of the variety—astringent or non-astringent, distinctly sweet, and without any foreign flavors or aftertastes.