The label DOP stands for "Denominazione di Origine Protetta," which translates to "Protected Designation of Origin" (PDO) in English. Like the PGI label, it is a European certification that guarantees that an agricultural or food product comes from a specific geographical region and possesses qualities, characteristics, or a reputation linked to that geographical origin.
However, the main difference between the PGI and DOP/PDO labels is that the DOP/PDO label is reserved for products in which all production stages take place within the determined geographical area, unlike the PGI label, which can be awarded to products that have been partially produced or processed outside the geographical area.
To obtain the DOP/PDO label, producers must adhere to strict specifications that define the criteria for production, processing, and product quality, as well as the geographical limits of the production area. Regular inspections are conducted to ensure that certified products meet the required standards to qualify for the designation.
The DOP/PDO label allows consumers to enjoy a guarantee of product quality and authenticity, while also providing producers with recognition and appreciation for their expertise and their territory.
The IGP label stands for "Indication Géographique Protégée" in French, which translates to "Protected Geographical Indication" (PGI) in English. It is a European certification that guarantees that an agricultural or food product comes from a specific geographical region and possesses qualities, characteristics, or a reputation linked to that geographical origin.
To obtain the PGI label, the product must be produced, processed, and prepared within the determined geographical area and meet specific criteria. These criteria can include geographical conditions, traditional production methods, specific sensory characteristics, and more.
The IGP label allows consumers to know the origin and characteristics of the product they are purchasing, and it provides producers with recognition and appreciation for their expertise and their territory.
The EU Organic Label is a European label created in 2010 and is mandatory for all packaged organic products in Europe. This label applies exclusively to food products.
The label guarantees that production adheres to strict rules of organic farming, processing, and sales. It enables consumers to identify organic products throughout Europe.
Anchored in European legislation, it is managed by the European Commission. Control and certification are carried out by independent organizations in the EU Member States.
Pasta di Gragnano is a variety of Italian pasta produced in the town of Gragnano, located in the Campania region in southern Italy.
Pasta di Gragnano is made from high-quality durum wheat, locally grown, and pure water from the surrounding mountains' springs. The pasta is then shaped using bronze molds, giving it a rough texture that better holds onto sauces.
The drying process is also crucial to the quality of Pasta di Gragnano. The pasta is slowly dried at low temperatures, typically in the open air, allowing for gradual evaporation of water while preserving the flavor and texture of the pasta.
Pasta di Gragnano is, therefore, an artisanal and traditional product that has received Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status from the European Union since 2013, ensuring that the product originates from the Gragnano region and meets specific quality and production criteria. Pasta di Gragnano is considered one of the finest types of pasta in the world and is highly regarded by chefs and Italian cuisine enthusiasts.
The Fairtrade label, also known as Fair Trade, is a certification that guarantees products have been produced and traded under fair conditions for producers, workers, and the environment.
The Fairtrade label is based on international standards that ensure decent working conditions, fair compensation, sustainable farming practices, and environmental protection. Producers must adhere to these standards throughout the production chain, from raw material production to processing, packaging, and distribution of finished products.
In exchange for complying with these standards, producers receive a guaranteed minimum price for their products, as well as a development premium that allows them to fund projects to improve their community and environment.
The Fairtrade label is used for a wide range of products, including coffee, tea, cocoa, fruits and vegetables, dairy products, cereals, sugar, cotton, cosmetics, and clothing.
By purchasing products bearing the Fairtrade label, consumers can contribute to supporting producers and workers in developing countries, as well as promoting fair and sustainable trade practices worldwide.