News

Go back

10.03.2020 - Foods

ECJ decides: Balsamico can also come from Germany

The term "Aceto Balsamico di Modena" has been a so-called "protected geographical indication (p.g.i.)" since 2009 and refers to balsamic vinegar from the Italian city of Modena.

These protected geographical indications are intended to prevent the imitation of regional specialties in Europe. German products that are similarly protected include Black Forest ham, Hessian hand cheese, and Thuringian sausages.

A German company marketed its vinegar produced in Germany as "German Balsamico" or "Balsamico." The association "Consorzio Tutela Aceto Balsamico di Modena" wanted to take action against this.

The ECJ has now decided that for such protected geographical indications, only the composite name is protected, not the individual components. Thus, terms like "aceto" or "balsamico" can also be used for vinegar that is not produced in the Modena region.

In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct labeling tests. We provide you with fast and reliable results.
Our customer advisors are very happy to answer any questions you may have.

Sources:
Tagesschau, www.tagesschau.de
ECJ Case C-432/18: https://bit.ly/3acWhaW
Zeit, www.zeit.de