Manna: Sicily’s Secret Superfood

In the remote mountains of the Madonie in Sicily lies a sweet secret: manna, also known as Sicily’s “white gold.” This natural sweetener, extracted from the sap of ash trees, was once a significant trade commodity for the region and is even mentioned in the Bible.

For a long time, however, manna fell into obscurity—until now. Today, it is experiencing a renaissance, attracting both food enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers alike.

An Ancient Tradition

Manna is much more than just an ancient sweet treat—it has a long history dating back to biblical times. The resin extracted from the ash trees of Sicily’s Madonie region was known and valued as early as antiquity. The Bible even refers to manna as "bread from heaven"—a divine gift.
But in Sicily, this “white gold” had a special significance beyond its mythical status: as a valuable trade good, it played an essential role in the local economy.

The Art of Harvesting Manna

The extraction of manna requires patience and precision. To collect the resin, the bark of the ash trees is carefully incised, allowing the milky sap to seep out. During the hot summer months, this sap hardens into a crystallized form. The harvest itself is a labor-intensive process, traditionally carried out during the peak summer season when the trees produce the most sap.
This meticulous process makes manna a precious product, and the knowledge of its harvest has been passed down for generations in family-run businesses.

However, with industrialization and the emergence of cheaper sweeteners, manna production faded into obscurity. The artisanal craft of producing this "white gold" was nearly forgotten—for a long time.

The Health Benefits of "White Gold"

Manna is not only rich in history but also offers significant health benefits, making it far superior to industrially produced sweeteners. Traditionally, it has been used as a natural laxative and is known for its soothing effect on the digestive system. Today, it is a sought-after ingredient in natural remedies as well as cosmetic and wellness products, thanks to its hydrating and skin-calming properties.
The health benefits of manna stem from its natural composition: it is packed with minerals and rich in fiber. It is especially popular among those seeking gentle, natural solutions for digestive support.

The Return of Manna

It’s no surprise that manna has been rediscovered in recent years. The Slow Food movement and the growing demand for sustainable, artisan-produced foods have brought new attention to this ancient product. Small businesses in Sicily are working to revive the traditional manna harvest—not just for local markets but also to meet the rising international demand.

Manna has also found its way into gourmet cuisine. Top chefs appreciate it as a natural sweetener with delicate caramel notes, incorporating it into desserts, beverages, and even savory dishes. Pastry chefs, in particular, have recognized its potential: the renowned Italian patissier Nicola Fiasconaro has even created a special panettone edition with manna and chocolate.

The return of manna is not only an opportunity for local producers but also a chance to bring this ancient craft into the modern era. Today, manna represents more than just a relic of the past—it is emerging as a trendy product that appeals to both food lovers and health-conscious consumers.

Manna: Superfood of the Future?

The future of manna looks promising. As more people seek natural, locally sourced foods, manna could play a key role in modern nutrition. It bridges tradition with contemporary dietary trends, standing for a return to authentic, handcrafted products.

And who knows? Sicily’s "white gold" might just become the next big superfood.

Photo by Eva Bronzini via pexels