Understanding Quality Certifications

European Union quality schemes protect the names of specific products and promote their unique characteristics, linked to their geographical origin and traditional know-how. These certifications ensure authenticity and quality for extra virgin olive oils.

Protected Designation of Origin

Highest level of protection

Covers products where every stage of production, processing, and preparation takes place in a specific region. The product's qualities and characteristics must be essentially or exclusively due to its geographical environment.

Example: Toscano IGP olive oil must be produced exclusively in Tuscany, using olives grown and pressed in that specific region.

Protected Geographical Indication

Geographical link

Covers products where at least one stage of production, processing, or preparation takes place in the region. The product must have a quality, reputation, or characteristic attributable to its geographical origin.

Example: Sicilia IGP olive oil can be produced using olives from Sicily, with pressing allowed in the region, maintaining its distinctive Sicilian character.