European Union Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)

The European Union's Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) is a certification that guarantees a product's quality, reputation, and characteristics are specifically linked to its geographic origin. It ensures that only products genuinely produced, processed, and prepared in a particular region can bear the name. This protection helps preserve local traditions, supports local economies, and assures consumers of authentic, high-quality regional products like cheeses, wines, and cured meats. Essentially, PDO status maintains the unique identity of regional foods, preventing imitation and promoting transparency and trust in their origin.