Protected Designation of Origin
Protected designation of origin (PDO) and protected geographical indication (PGI) and Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) are classifications defined in European Union Law to protect regional foods. The legislation came into force in 1992. It protects the names of wines, cheeses, hams, sausages, olives, and even regional breads, fruits, and vegetables. As such, foods such as gorgonzola, Parmigiano Reggiano, roquefort, and champagne can only be labelled as such if they come from the designated region.This system is similar to the French Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) system or the Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) used in Italy.
Article 13 of this legislation states that registered designations are protected against
...any usurpation or imitation, even if the true origin of the product is indicated or if the appellation is used in translated form or accompanied by terms such as "kind," "type,".
This legislation expanded upon the 1951 Stresa Convention, which was the first international agreement on cheese names. Seven countries participated: Austria, Denmark, France, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland.
