What is the protected food name scheme?

The EU Protected Food Name (PFN) scheme is designed to protect foodstuffs and agricultural products which possess characteristics attributable to the geographical area, production or processing methods used.

What is the difference between PDO and PGI?

PDO (in Italian DOP) is awarded to products of excellence that express a close tie to its territory of origin. PGI (in Italian IGP) is awarded to agricultural products and foodstuffs closely linked to the geographical area. At least one of the stages of production, processing or preparation takes place in the area.

What is a PGI food?

Protected Geographical Indication (PGI): this designation covers products whose “production, processing or preparation” takes places in a specific area. Unlike PDO and PGI, these products do not need to be connected to a specific area or method of production.

When was the Protected Food Name scheme introduced?

The EU Protected Food Name scheme was introduced in 1993 to protect traditional and regional foods and drinks whose origin and authenticity can be guaranteed. These ingredients and products are protected legally from imitation throughout the European Union and with some countries outside the EU through reciprocal agreements.

How are food names protected in the EU?

Under this system a named food or drink (separate arrangements exist for wines and spirits) registered at a European level will be given legal protection against imitation throughout the EU. For more information on EU Protected Food Name regulations, read the relevant sections on our website.

Where can I find protected food and drink names?

Find protected food and drink names in the official GB registers published by Defra. Find out more about the UK’s protected food and drinks schemes.

How to register a name under the EU quality scheme?

How to register the name of an agri-food product, wine and spirit drinks under the EU quality schemes, and oppose a registration. Traditional speciality guaranteed (TSG) highlights the traditional aspects such as the way the product is made or its composition, without being linked to a specific geographical area.