ACORN COFFEE INTRODUCED TO THE PUBLIC IN PETROVO

At the cultural-tourist event "Ozren Autumn" in Petrovo, over 50 exhibitors from Republika Srpska and the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina showcased a variety of products—ranging from artisanal and artistic to agricultural and confectionery items. Among them, acorn coffee was introduced, praised for its benefits for digestion, the thyroid gland, and circulation.

Vojin Nedić from Sižje near Lukavac, a regular participant at "Ozren Autumn," this year presented acorn coffee along with his goat milk products and homemade juices.

Describing the preparation process, Nedić explained that one teaspoon of acorn coffee should be added to 150 milliliters of water, noting that since it is slightly bitter, he recommends sweetening it, preferably with honey.

"The coffee is excellent, it's good for digestion, the thyroid gland, and circulation," Nedić said, adding that acorn flour can also be used in bread-making.

He mentioned that the idea of processing acorns came to him by observing goats grazing, as they are selective and seek out healthy food.

Nedić emphasized that acorns were once used by our ancestors in their diet, but today, they are a nearly forgotten ingredient.

Mirjana Dujković from Doboj, who presented crocheted bags of various designs and sizes for all occasions, said it takes her between three to seven days to make a unique bag and that she finds her customers through social media.

She added that young people today do not appreciate handmade work very much and are not particularly interested in learning this useful craft.

Miroslava Jokić from Petrovo exhibited traditional folk costumes, explaining that it can take up to a month to make a single vest (jelek). Despite the hard work, she said the smiles of customers, especially children who proudly wear these traditional garments, bring her great joy.

The event, now in its tenth year, was held at Nemanjića Square in Petrovo, organized by the municipality and sponsors as part of the celebration of Miholjdan—both the patron saint day and the municipal holiday. It was opened by the mayor, Ozren Petković, who expressed his satisfaction with the diversity of the offerings and the turnout of exhibitors.

Petković noted that traditional Ozren products such as honey, brandy, cheese, and handicrafts were on display.

One of the organizers, the local Tourist Organization, represented by its director, Slađana Baji, said that many of the exhibitors are regular participants, with around 50 of them coming from Banja Luka, Prijedor, Šamac, Modriča, and Lukavac.

Baji emphasized that events like these provide a direct connection between agricultural producers and their customers.