Europeans Want Their Names Back | The Olive Oil Source
 

Europeans Want Their Names Back

Source: The Olive Oil Source
October 09, 2003

An appellation can bring premium prices. Real Tuscan olive oil has sold at a 20% premium since its name got protection in the EU. At the recent trade summit in Cancun, Europeans demanded exclusive use of names such as feta cheese, cognac, champagne, mozzarella, Roquefort and Chablis, claiming these are appellations which should only be used by producers located in the respective regions. American producers argue that the terms are merely descriptive of a style of food product. If the Europeans get their way, U.S. producers may not be able to claim a "Tuscan variety" olive oil.