Labels
Our cheese advisors will be happy to answer your questions and help you find out more about our labels. AOC? AOP ? PGI? STG? Official quality acronyms that aren't always understood, and need deciphering!
Sensory, hygienic, sanitary, geographical, linked to manufacturing methods, terroirs and milk composition, at most. They also guarantee know-how, respect for the environment and animal welfare.
Appelation d'Origine Controlée
The AOC or Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée was created in 1919.
These were primarily national decrees certifying the geographical area of origin for cheese production, processing and development. It highlights characteristics essentially due to the geographical area, such as terroir, climate and know-how.... It is managed by INAO. On their website, you can find all the specifications for each AOC.
The AOC application is the first step before the PDO. It's a national recognition. PDO is a European recognition.
Protected Designation of Origin
The PDO or Protected Designation of Origin was created in 1992.
The INAO then submitted the file to Europe. As soon as the PDO is granted, European decrees are published, certifying the same level of protection as the AOC, but at a level extended to the member countries of the European Union. For example, Camembert de Normandie has PDO status. It is therefore impossible to produce Camembert de Normandie in southern Spain or on islands off the coast of the Netherlands.
Protected Geographical Indication
The PGI or Protected Geographical Indication is also a European guarantee.
It determines the quality, reputation or other characteristics of a product, but is linked only to its geographical origin. Production and/or elaboration and/or processing take place in the defined geographical area.
Traditional Speciality Guaranteed
Finally, a little-known acronym has made its appearance. It's called STG, or Traditional Speciality Guaranteed.
Such is the case with "Hay Milk". This name refers to the feeding of dairy animals, whether cows, goats or sheep. The STG guarantees a GMO-free feed composed of 75% grass or hay.
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