guardians of quality

The importance of PGIs, PDOs, and TSGs in Spain: A Seal of Quality and Tradition.

In Spain, the protection and certification of agricultural and food products are essential to guarantee their authenticity and quality. To this end, there are three key European certifications: the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), and the Traditional Specialty Guaranteed (TSG). These certifications not only preserve the tradition and prestige of products but also benefit the local economy, promote sustainability, and ensure that agricultural and livestock practices are environmentally responsible.

The PDO certifies that a product comes from a specific region and that its quality and characteristics are due exclusively to the geographical environment, including natural and human factors. Spain has more than 100 products with PDOs, including Manchego cheese, Jabugo ham, and Rioja wine. In the wine sector, PDOs have been key to positioning Spanish wines in the international market, with exports exceeding €2.9 billion in 2023. Regulations on these products also encourage the use of sustainable production methods, such as pesticide reduction and efficient water management in vineyards and olive groves.

On the other hand, PGIs certify products whose production, processing, or processing takes place in a specific region, although not all stages must necessarily take place there. Examples of PGI products in Spain include Galician Veal, Cecina de León, and Valencia Oranges. According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture, Spain has more than 80 PGI products, which generate thousands of jobs and contribute to rural development. This certification encourages producers to adopt less invasive agricultural techniques, promoting biodiversity and reducing the carbon footprint of their processes.

The TSG seal is not linked to a specific region, but rather to traditional production methods and recognized recipes. Its objective is to protect production processes passed down through time. In Spain, Serrano Ham is one of the main products with TSG certification, ensuring that its curing follows ancient practices. Thanks to this regulation, measures have been adopted to ensure that livestock are raised and fed under optimal conditions, respecting animal welfare and reducing environmental impact.

Products with PDO and PGI represent more than 10% of the value of Spanish agri-food production, generating an economic impact of more than €7 billion annually. These certifications also promote gastronomic tourism, attracting millions of visitors interested in learning about local produce. Furthermore, they guarantee sustainable and environmentally friendly production, promoting the use of responsible agricultural practices and contributing to the conservation of the landscape and biodiversity. For example, many olive oil farms with PDO have implemented reforestation and soil conservation programs to mitigate erosion and improve ecosystem quality.

From a social perspective, these certifications also have a positive impact on rural communities, preventing depopulation and ensuring decent working conditions. By promoting local production and fair trade, these certifications contribute to maintaining a strong and sustainable economic fabric in many regions of Spain. In turn, consumers are assured that they are purchasing authentic products, produced under strict quality controls and using environmentally friendly methods.

DOP, PGI, and TSG certifications not only ensure the authenticity and quality of Spanish products but also play a key role in the economy, sustainability, and promotion of the country's gastronomic heritage. In a globalized market, these certifications offer a competitive advantage, allowing Spanish products to be recognized and appreciated worldwide. The combination of tradition and innovation in production practices makes these products a benchmark in terms of quality and sustainability, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy Spain's unique flavors and gastronomic richness.

Enter the glù bubble and discover more articles like this.