Exhibiting at Foodex Japan 2025

About Consorzio per la Tutela del Formaggio Gorgonzola

The Consorzio per la Tutela del Formaggio Gorgonzola is the official governing body responsible for the protection, regulation, and promotion of Gorgonzola cheese. Established in 1970, the consortium ensures that authentic Gorgonzola PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) cheese is produced according to traditional methods and meets strict quality standards. Based in Novara, Italy, the consortium represents over 30 certified dairies producing Gorgonzola Dolce and Gorgonzola Piccante.

Core Business and Specialization

The Consorzio Gorgonzola is dedicated to maintaining the authenticity and heritage of Gorgonzola cheese through:

• Regulation and enforcement of PDO standards for production and labeling.
• Marketing and promotion to enhance global awareness and consumption.
• Protection against counterfeits through legal actions and certification marks.
• Support for cheesemakers and dairy farmers to maintain sustainable production.

Product Offerings

The consortium protects and certifies two types of Gorgonzola cheese:

• Gorgonzola Dolce (Sweet Gorgonzola) – A soft, creamy cheese with a delicate, mild flavor, aged for a minimum of 50 days.
• Gorgonzola Piccante (Spicy Gorgonzola) – A firmer, sharper cheese with a more intense and tangy taste, aged for a minimum of 80 days.

Competitive Advantages and Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

• PDO Certification: Ensures authenticity and traditional production methods.
• 100% Italian Ingredients: Made from cow’s milk sourced exclusively from the Piemonte and Lombardy regions.
• Strict Quality Control: Each wheel undergoes rigorous inspections before certification.
• Long Aging Process: Natural ripening for 50-80 days, developing its unique flavor profile.
• Artisanal and Industrial Synergy: Balancing handcrafted traditions with modern food safety standards.

Financial Performance and Market Expansion

Gorgonzola PDO is one of the best-selling blue cheeses globally, with significant market expansion in recent years.

• Annual Production: Over 5 million wheels of Gorgonzola PDO produced annually.
• Market Value: The Gorgonzola cheese sector generates an estimated €850 million in annual revenue.
• Export Growth: International exports have increased by 14% annually.
• Key Export Markets:
  • Europe: France, Germany, UK, Spain
  • North America: USA, Canada
  • Asia: Japan, China, South Korea
  • Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia

International Shipments and Export Markets

As a leading Italian blue cheese, Gorgonzola PDO is widely distributed across premium food markets, restaurants, and gourmet retailers.

• Total International Shipments (Last 5 Years): Over 100,000 metric tons of Gorgonzola PDO exported.
• Major Distribution Channels:
  • High-end supermarkets
  • Specialty cheese shops
  • Michelin-starred restaurants
  • Online gourmet food platforms
• Strategic Expansion:
  • Strong partnerships with European food distributors.
  • Growing demand in Asia, particularly in Japan and South Korea.

Certifications and Compliance

The Consorzio Gorgonzola ensures compliance with European and international food safety regulations, maintaining the highest standards of quality and authenticity.

• PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) Certification – Ensures the cheese is produced in the designated Gorgonzola region.
• ISO 22000 – International food safety management certification.
• HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) Compliance – Strict adherence to food safety protocols.
• FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) Approval – Compliance with U.S. food import regulations.
• EU Organic Certification (for select organic Gorgonzola dairies) – Supporting sustainable dairy farming.

Customer Testimonials

Gorgonzola PDO is highly praised by chefs, retailers, and cheese enthusiasts worldwide.

• “Gorgonzola Dolce is my go-to blue cheese for creamy pasta sauces and gourmet pizza.” – Michelin-Star Chef, Italy
• “Gorgonzola Piccante has the perfect balance of tangy and spicy flavors. It’s a must-have in any cheese selection.” – Gourmet Retailer, France
• “The consortium has done an outstanding job in protecting the authenticity and quality of Gorgonzola PDO.” – Food Distributor, USA

Major Achievements

• Global PDO Recognition – Gorgonzola is one of the top-selling blue cheeses worldwide.
• Award-Winning Cheese – Multiple gold medals at international cheese competitions.
• Sustainability Leadership – Promoting ethical dairy farming and eco-friendly production.
• Culinary Icon – Gorgonzola PDO is featured in top-tier restaurants and culinary competitions worldwide.

Conclusion

The Consorzio per la Tutela del Formaggio Gorgonzola is the guardian of Italy’s finest blue cheese tradition, ensuring that Gorgonzola PDO maintains its legacy of excellence. With its commitment to authenticity, quality, and global market expansion, the consortium continues to elevate the reputation of Gorgonzola cheese worldwide. As an internationally recognized symbol of craftsmanship and heritage, the consortium remains dedicated to protecting, promoting, and innovating the future of Gorgonzola PDO.