EU guaranteed quality

In the European Union, a plethora of foodstuffs are produced, each having its own identity and qualities. But there are some products that differ, since they are marked as Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) or Protected Geographical Indication (PGI ). For each product that bears one these two indications, the European Union identifies its intimate bond to a specific geographical production area, with or more unique characteristics of authenticity.

The Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) identifies the product whose quality or reputation is associated to the place or the area where it is produced, processed, or prepared, although the ingredients used do not necessarily originate from the specific geographical area. The PGI products must also adhere to an exact set of specifications, and can carry this indication to facilitate their identification. A Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) means that the product is produced, processed, and prepared within a specific geographical area using the recognized knowhow of local producers and ingredients from the region concerned. These are products whose characteristics are linked to their geographical origin. Such products must adhere to a precise set of specifications and may bear this PDO.