Also known as “parmesan cheese,” Parmigiano Reggiano is a specific cheese from a specific region of Italy. “Cheese people” are particular about this because this is a protected designation of origin status – so Parmigiano Reggiano must adhere to strict production guidelines and regulations to earn the prestigious Parmigiano Reggiano PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) certification. This geographic importance not only ensures authenticity but also highlights the traditional craftsmanship that goes into creating each wheel.

Produced exclusively in the provinces of Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and parts of Mantua and Bologna, Parmigiano Reggiano is not just a cheese—it’s a symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and geographic importance.

Photo by Elio Santos on Unsplash

Parmigiano Reggiano PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) 

Nestled in the heart of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region lies a culinary treasure that has stood the test of time and tantalized taste buds for centuries: Parmigiano Reggiano! Known as the King of Cheeses, this iconic Italian delicacy boasts a rich history and unparalleled flavor profile that has earned it worldwide acclaim. Produced exclusively in the provinces of Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and parts of Mantua and Bologna, Parmigiano Reggiano is not just a cheese—it’s a symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and geographic importance.

What’s the big deal? We love the taste but what’s all the fuss about?

Crafted from the milk of grass-fed cows roaming the lush pastures of the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Its unique terroir, characterized by nutrient-rich soil and a temperate climate, contributes to its unparalleled flavor profile. Its origins can be traced back to ancient times when monks in monasteries around Parma perfected their production techniques. With its distinct granular texture and nutty flavour profile, Parmigiano Reggiano is often compared to another renowned Italian cheese – Grana Padano. However, what sets Parmigiano Reggiano apart is its strict adherence to traditional methods and rigorous quality standards that have been preserved through generations.

With age, comes deliciousness. 

Aged for a minimum of 12 months but often up to 36 months or more, each wheel undergoes meticulous care and attention during maturation. The result is a cheese with a granular texture and complex nutty-sweet taste that has captivated culinary enthusiasts worldwide. Parmigiano Reggiano offers a versatile range of culinary uses. Its sharp, nutty taste enhances salads, soups, and risottos, adding depth and complexity to each dish.

This classic Italian cheese is a must for any retailer selling cheese. Make sure that you are getting the best that Italy has to offer in cheese, and enjoy selling and eating only certified DOP Parmigiano Reggiano.

This is very popular already, as a retailer, can I capitalize on this, or am I too late?

Parmigiano Reggiano is a popular cheese in Canada. Canadians brought in roughly 77,000 wheels (3,087 tonnes) of Parmigiano-Reggiano in 2020. Ontario led the demand, followed by Quebec, B.C. and Alberta. Of the G8 countries, Canada showed the biggest growth in imports at an increase of 36.8 percent. It’s not too late. 

Popular merchandising solutions/shopping basket pairings

• Pasta of any kind
• Root vegetables and beans for soups
• Flour, baking powder, baking soda for pizza, homemade pasta
• Pasta sauce, tomatoes
• Consider buying a wheel or Parmigiano Reggiano, and packaging it yourself

For great recipes that inspire your consumers

Check out a great set of recipes at https://www.parmigianoreggiano.com/recipes-more-recipes/