Luzhanska (mineral water)

What it is

Luzhanska is a natural carbonated sodium bicarbonate mineral water from Svalyava, sourced from the valley of the Great Pynia River near Poliana. The Encyclopedia of Modern Ukraine describes it, along with 'Poliana Nelipynska', as the closest analogue to Georgian 'Borzhomi' among the waters of the Svalyava group.

Local residents have long known the local springs by two names — 'Poliana Kvasova' and 'Luzhanska'. In the 19th century, both waters were in high demand in the European market and received awards at exhibitions.

This page is about the water itself, the springs, and the place, not about the brand. For information on sanatoriums and treatment at the resorts of the region, see the 'Health' section.

History and name

Ukrainian Wikipedia recounts the following history: In 1775, local waters began to be studied by doctor A. Sebeok, and in the 1870s, pharmacist B. Pall recommended the water from the 'Margit' spring for treatment. Another spring with a similar composition, 'Erzsebet', belonged to Count Schönborn; the bottling plant 'Lugi Erzsebet' operated until 1945, after which it was renamed 'Lugi'.

The exact locations of the historical springs 'Margit' and 'Erzsebet' are described vaguely in popular texts, so we present this history as a recount.

Ingredients and allergens

Contains allergens: none of the 14 major allergens in the traditional recipe
Diet: lenten · vegan · gluten-free · no cooking

Ingredients of the traditional recipe; every cook and every place may do it differently — please ask when ordering. We cannot guarantee the absence of allergens or traces.

How it is made

The water is extracted from wells in the valley of the Great Pynia and bottled in Svalyava. It belongs to the Svalyava group of bicarbonate waters, which are formed in Carpathian sandstones.

Where it is eaten

The area is approximate and based on the sources below. The dish is cooked outside it too, and ethnographic borders are blurred.

Valley of the Great Pynia, outskirts of Poliana (Mukachevo district, until 2020 — Svalyava district).

When it is eaten

Occasions: Everyday food

In tradition

Luzhanska and Poliana Kvasova are two old 'sisters' from the same valley; together they made Svalyava known in Central Europe as early as the 19th century.

Safety

Not for treatment: drink mineral water for therapeutic purposes only on the advice of a doctor. Therapeutic-table waters are not intended for unlimited daily consumption; children, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses should only consume it after consulting a doctor.

FAQ