Protected designation of origin
Also called: PDO or protected designation of origin(PDO)
The protected designation of origin is part of a European regulation to protect regional products from imitation. Some 600 products are defined where and/or how they may be produced. This list is divided into the categories of protected geographical indication, protected designation of origin and traditional speciality guaranteed.
The protected designation of origin goes beyond the protected geographical indication. Products with a protected designation of origin must be produced, processed and prepared within a specific area and according to a recognized and controlled process.
Some examples of protected designations of origin:
- Opperdoezer Round (potato variety)
- North Holland Gouda and Edam
- Kanterkaas (Frisian nail cheese)
- Beurre d'Ardenne (butter from Belgium)
- Greek feta cheese
- Parma ham
Products that meet the requirements may bear the protected designation of origin label. However, the mention of this label is not obligatory; the product is also protected just by displaying the name.
