GRANA

The term "Grana" can refer to a couple of different things, depending on the context:

1. Grana (Biology):

In biology, "Grana" (singular: "Granum") refers to the stacks of thylakoids found within the chloroplasts of plant cells. Chloroplasts are the organelles responsible for photosynthesis. Here's a breakdown:

• Thylakoids: These are disc-shaped, membrane-bound compartments that contain chlorophyll and other pigments essential for capturing light energy.
• Grana: Multiple thylakoids are stacked together like coins to form a granum. These stacks are connected by stromal lamellae (intergranal thylakoids).
• Function: The primary function of grana is to facilitate the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis. This is where light energy is converted into chemical energy (ATP and NADPH), which is then used in the dark reactions (Calvin cycle) to produce glucose. The stacking of thylakoids into grana increases the surface area for light absorption, making photosynthesis more efficient.

2. Grana (Cheese):

"Grana" also refers to a family of hard, mature Italian cheeses with a granular texture, often used for grating. These cheeses are typically made in large wheels. The word "grana" in Italian actually means "grain," referring to the cheese's characteristic texture.

• Key Characteristics: Grana cheeses are known for their granular, often crystalline, texture. They are typically split with a blunt, almond-shaped knife rather than being sliced.
• Legally Protected: Within the European Union, the term "grana" is legally protected by the "Grana Padano" Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). This means only cheese produced under specific regulations can be called Grana Padano in EU countries.
• Examples: The two most well-known examples of grana-type cheeses are Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano) and Grana Padano. While similar, Grana Padano tends to be less sharp, crumbly, and grainy than Parmesan. Differences also exist in the feeding of the cows and the use of natural preservatives during production.
• Other Grana Cheeses: Other examples include Granone Lodigiano, Trentingrana, Gran Sardo (a sheep's milk cheese), and Valgrana.

3. GRANA (Fashion Company):

GRANA is an online fashion company based in Hong Kong.

• Founding: It was co-founded by Luke Grana and Pieter-Paul Wittgen and officially launched in October 2014.
• Business Model: GRANA operates as an online-only, direct-to-consumer seller, aiming to offer high-quality clothing at more affordable prices by sourcing fabrics directly from mills and reducing traditional markups. They also had an "offline showroom" called "The Fitting Room" in Hong Kong, where customers could try on clothes before ordering online.
• Products: They focus on modern basics made from premium natural fabrics like silk, linen, cashmere, merino wool, Tencel, pima cotton, and baby alpaca wool, sourced internationally.
• Ethos: GRANA emphasizes ethical manufacturing and sustainable fashion, positioning itself as a "new luxury" brand.