adevarul.ro/stil-de-viata/magazin/povestea-castane

Edible chestnuts have a long history in Romania, particularly in Maramureș and Oltenia, where they were once abundant. In the mid-20th century, local factories produced significant quantities of chestnut puree, but today, imports far exceed domestic production. Most chestnuts found in supermarkets are imported, with local varieties becoming increasingly rare. Research indicates that chestnuts may have been present in Romania since ancient times, possibly introduced by the Romans or spread by monks. Despite their ecological value, chestnut forests are declining due to climate change and disease. In the 1950s, chestnuts were industrially harvested, leading to the creation of various chestnut products. However, the decline in chestnut populations has raised concerns about their future in Romania.