Regional and Traditional Products Certification – Protecting Authentic Food Heritage
Receive a quote tailored to your needs
Who is it for?
This service is designed for food producers, agricultural cooperatives, processors, and manufacturers of products with a unique regional origin or traditional recipe. It is suitable for both small and large businesses seeking to protect and promote their authentic products in the European market.
What is it and what it includes
Certification of regional and traditional products covers Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), and Traditional Specialty Guaranteed (TSG). These schemes ensure that only products meeting strict criteria regarding origin, production methods, and reputation can use protected names and EU quality symbols. The process includes application, product specification review, on-site audits, and issuance of a certificate of conformity. Certified products gain legal protection, market differentiation, and the right to use EU quality logos.
What are the benefits?
- Legal protection of product names and prevention of misuse or imitation.
- Enhanced credibility and consumer trust through EU-recognized quality marks.
- Access to broader EU and international markets.
- Promotion of local heritage, traditions, and regional identity.
- Economic benefits for producers and regions through higher product value and increased competitiveness1.
Why Choose Kiwa?
Kiwa is an independent, accredited certification body with expertise in food quality and authenticity schemes. The organization offers transparent, reliable audits and supports clients throughout the certification process. Kiwa’s certificates are recognized across the EU, helping producers secure their product’s reputation and market position.
Steps in the Process
Application Submission
Producers submit an application and detailed product specification, including origin, composition, and production method.
Documentation Review
Assessment of compliance with PDO, PGI, or TSG requirements.
On-site Audit
Verification of production processes and traceability.
Certificate Issuance
Upon successful evaluation, a certificate of conformity is granted, allowing use of the relevant EU quality mark.
Ongoing Supervision
Regular audits ensure continued compliance and protection1.
Applicable Norms or Regulations
EU Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs
National laws on food quality and geographical indications
PDO, PGI, and TSG scheme requirements
FAQ
What types of products can be certified as regional or traditional?
Products with a unique link to a specific region (PDO/PGI) or made using traditional recipes or methods (TSG) are eligible for certification.
What is the difference between PDO, PGI, and TSG?
PDO requires all production steps in a specific region; PGI requires at least one step; TSG focuses on traditional character, not location.
How does certification protect my product?
Certified products receive legal protection against misuse of their name and benefit from exclusive use of EU quality logos.
Who can apply for certification?
Any producer, cooperative, or group involved in making a qualifying product can apply, either individually or collectively.
What are the main benefits for producers?
Certification increases product value, supports marketing, and helps preserve local traditions and regional identity.
