Livanjski cheese has officially earned a prestigious EU-protected geographical indication (PGI), joining a list of 3,639 other products recognized for their quality and tradition under the EU register for geographical indications for agricultural and food products.
EU geographical indications enjoy a global reputation, and obtaining this status is expected to significantly boost market opportunities for Livanjski cheese producers, especially small-scale farmers.
Head of the EU Delegation and Special Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Luigi Soreca, emphasized that Livanjski cheese now stands alongside products like champagne, Parmesan, and Iberian ham as a protected product in the EU.
“Congratulations to Bosnia and Herzegovina! Livanjski cheese is the first food product from the Western Balkans to achieve EU protection. We hope this is just the beginning and look forward to seeing more products follow suit. We are ready to support local producers of food and beverages with guidance on how to apply for EU geographical indications and quality schemes,” Soreca stated.
The uniqueness of Livanjski cheese lies in the exceptional quality of the milk used, sourced from a region where Mediterranean and continental climates converge.
In this distinctive environment, with its mountain pastures and karst fields, the rich vegetation and local aromatic herbs impart a signature flavor to the cheese.
Produced in Livno and neighboring municipalities, Livanjski cheese has gained worldwide recognition for its quality and tradition. Its production methods, passed down through generations since the late 19th century, ensure consistent excellence.
The protection of Livanjski cheese is a tangible example of the benefits of close partnership with the European Union for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The PGI safeguards the authenticity of Livanjski cheese, guaranteeing that only cheese produced in specific areas using traditional methods can bear its name.
This designation not only preserves its unique taste but also highlights its connection to the region’s climate, pastures, and traditional cheesemaking practices, making it a symbol of agricultural excellence in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
More information about EU geographical indications and quality schemes, including details on how products are protected, can be found at the provided link.
Source: See Srpska
