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Only Italians Can Call It Parmesan

EU's high court rules against German cheese makers

By Sam Gale Rosen,  Newser Staff

Posted Feb 26, 2008 7:36 PM CST
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(Newser) – Europe's high court ruled today that only Italians can call their cheese Parmesan, Bloomberg reports. The judges shot down an argument by German cheese-makers that the term is generic. "This is absolutely wonderful news," said the author of an Italian cheese guide. "There is no more risk in Europe of finding Parmesan that isn't Parmesan."

"Outside the European Union is another story," he added. US food producer Kraft has sold hard grated cheese as Parmesan for 60 years. The ruling will also aid EU efforts to protect other regional foods, like Prosciutto di Parma and Roquefort cheese, according to Bloomberg. Such foods have already sparked debate between EU countries and the US, Argentina, and Australia in trade talks.

Only cheeses bearing the protected designation of origin Parmigiano Reggiano' can be sold under the name Parmesan', ruled the European Court of Justice today in Luxembourg.
"Only cheeses bearing the protected designation of origin Parmigiano Reggiano' can be sold under the name Parmesan'," ruled the European Court of Justice today in Luxembourg.   (KRT Photos)
This is absolutely wonderful news, said Piero Sardo, author of 'Italian Cheese: A Guide To Its Discovery and Appreciation.' It's been an issue that has been dragging on for 12 years.
"This is absolutely wonderful news," said Piero Sardo, author of 'Italian Cheese: A Guide To Its Discovery and Appreciation.' "It's been an issue that has been dragging on for 12 years."   (Shutterstock.com)
Only cheeses bearing the protected designation of origin Parmigiano Reggiano' can be sold under the name Parmesan', ruled the European Court of Justice today in Luxembourg.
"Only cheeses bearing the protected designation of origin Parmigiano Reggiano' can be sold under the name Parmesan'," ruled the European Court of Justice today in Luxembourg.   (Shutterstock.com)
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Some other protected food names
Daily Mail (UK)

 
Germany • European Union • Italy • cheese • judge • High Court • Parmesan • ruling

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