Brussels – The first Protected Geographical Indication in the Western Balkans comes from Bosnia and Herzegovina. “As of today, Livanjski sir joins products such as Champagne, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Jamón Ibérico in receiving trademark protection from the EU,” announced the Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Luigi Soreca, in a video message.
On 12 December, the European Commission approved the addition of the hard, full-fat cheese produced in the Livno area to the PGI register, joining a list of 3,639 products whose quality and traditions are recognised and protected through the EU’s register for agricultural geographical indications.
This cheese has been crafted since the 19th century from cow’s milk, sheep’s milk, or a blend of both, using methods passed down through generations. It boasts a slightly sweet taste, reminiscent of walnut kernels, and develops a pleasantly piquant flavour as it ages. The secret to the cheese’s distinctiveness lies in the exceptional quality of the milk used, produced in a region where Mediterranean and continental climates meet in mountain pastures and karst fields. Its distinctive aroma, influenced by local aromatic herbs, originates from livestock grazing on the region’s unique vegetation.
“The EU’s quality schemes and geographical indications have a strong reputation across the world, and receiving PGI status is expected to bring significant benefits for producers when marketing themselves, in particular for small-scale producers,” the European Commission stressed. This label protects the authenticity of Livanjski sir, guaranteeing that only cheese made in designated areas according to traditional methods can carry this name. It reflects not just the unique flavour but also the connection to the region’s climate, pastures, and traditional production methods.
Head of the EU Delegation Soreca added that “my hope is that more products will benefit from the EU’s geographical indication and quality schemes, because this country has a fantastic gastronomic heritage.”
Today, Livanjski sir 🧀becomes the first food product in the Western Balkans to receive 🇪🇺 Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, joining the ranks of prestigious European products that are protected for quality and authenticity.
My hope is that more 🇧🇦 products will… pic.twitter.com/rUgN9FISk6
— Luigi Soreca (@LSorecaEU) December 12, 2024
