John Keane, Milan Office Manager, Bord Bia – Irish Food Board
Italy is the European leader with the highest number of products protected under the respective EU schemes. At present Italy has a total of 239 products registered of which 149 are PDO (protected designation of origin); 88 are PGI (protected geographical indication); and 2 are TSG (traditional speciality guaranteed). This represents a total production of 1.3 million tonnes, a farm gate value of €6 billion, and a retail value of around €10 billion.
After a drop in the production of certified products in recent years, production picked up again last year with an increase in total production of certified products of 20%. This increase was made up mainly of fruit & vegetables, cereals, and Balsamic vinegar from Modena. Production of certified cheeses increased by 2% while production of certified meats fell by 1.7% due mainly to a drop in the production of Parma hams & San Daniele hams. While there may be 239 products registered the bulk of production is represented by 10 product categories (see table below).
Four products are currently registered from Ireland i.e. Connemara Hill lamb (PGI); Timoleague Brown Pudding (PGI); Imokilly Regato (PDO) & Clare Island Salmon (PGI).
