#PDO Products #Fontina Cheese #Barolo Wine

Understanding PDO Products and Their Quality Assurance

Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) is an official certification that underscores the quality and authenticity of various products. This article dives into the intricacies of PDO labels, with a particular focus on renowned varieties like Barolo and Barbaresco wines, as well as Fontina cheese.

What is PDO?

The acronym PDO, or Protected Designation of Origin, pertains to products that are produced, processed, and packaged in a specified geographical locale under strict traditional methods. This ensures that every item bearing the PDO label meets stringent standards regarding its origin and quality. Established by the European Union, the PDO certification aims to protect specialty foods and beverages from imitation and counterfeiting.

In 2010, the EU integrated the existing Italian designations DOC (Controlled Designation of Origin) and DOCG (Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin) into the PDO classification system, further strengthening the guarantee of quality associated with these products.

A Taste of Tradition: Fontina Cheese from the Aosta Valley

Among the distinguished PDO products, Fontina cheese, originating from the Aosta Valley, stands out. This cheese has held its PDO status since 1996 and is celebrated for its creamy texture, sweet aroma, and exquisite flavor. Fontina is a product of traditional techniques and high-quality local ingredients, showcasing the best of what the region has to offer.

How to Identify Authentic Fontina PDO?

When purchasing Fontina PDO, several key indicators ensure the cheese's authenticity:

• - Official Stamp: Each wheel of Fontina is imprinted with a stamp that certifies it meets the production guidelines endorsed by the official Brand Protection Committee of the Fontina Protection Consortium.
• - CTF Number: Below this stamp, the CTF number identifies the producer affiliated with the consortium, allowing consumers to trace the cheese back to its source. This information is readily available both in specialty stores and on the Consortium's website.
• - Casein Plate: An extra measure of assurance comes in the form of a casein plate, which includes an identification number that permits the tracing of the cheese's production date and the source of the milk used.

Quality Control Measures

Before a wheel of Fontina can be marketed as PDO, it must undergo extensive quality checks. Hand inspections assess the cheese's consistency, and a drill technique is applied to extract a