The making of Grana Padano PDO cheese
Dairy Products, Cheese, Dairy
Cheese: Grana Padano
Grated Grana Padano, Portioned Grana Padano, Grana Padano DOP Cheese, Grana Padano DOP, Grana Padano Cheese (PDO)
Grana Padano PDO cheese
Consorzio Tutela Grana Padano is a renowned organization based in Lodi, Italy, that safeguards the prestigious Grana Padano cheese. For over six decades, the Consortium has been committed to maintaining the highest standards in the production, promotion, and distribution of Grana Padano, a cheese with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. This prestigious recognition ensures that only cheese produced in specific areas of northern Italy can bear the Grana Padano name.
The Consorzio Tutela Grana Padano was officially established in 1954 to protect and promote Grana Padano and its rich heritage. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry recognized the Consortium’s role in preserving the PDO status of Grana Padano in 2002, which cemented its importance in the global dairy industry.
The Consortium was founded with the goal of preserving traditional production methods while adapting to modern needs. This balance of tradition and innovation has allowed Grana Padano to become one of the most consumed cheeses in the world. With a history that spans over 1,000 years, Grana Padano’s legacy is intertwined with the agricultural and cultural heritage of Northern Italy.
The Consorzio Tutela Grana Padano's core mission is the protection of the Grana Padano brand, ensuring the cheese maintains its quality and authenticity. The Consortium oversees the production process, ensuring that every wheel of Grana Padano meets the strict PDO standards. Its responsibilities include monitoring production practices, supporting marketing and promotional activities, and educating consumers about the unique qualities of Grana Padano cheese.
Grana Padano is produced exclusively in 8 regions of northern Italy, namely: Piedmont, Lombardy, Veneto, Emilia-Romagna, Trentino, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Liguria, and the Province of Savona. The cheese is made from partially skimmed cow's milk, using traditional methods passed down through generations.
The primary product of the Consortium is Grana Padano cheese, a hard, granular cheese that is aged between 9 to 24 months. The cheese is used in a wide range of culinary applications, from being grated over pasta to being served in gourmet dishes. It is available in various aging stages, each offering distinct textures and flavors, allowing it to cater to diverse customer preferences.
Grana Padano has been granted PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status, meaning that only cheese produced in specific regions and following strict regulations can be sold under the Grana Padano name. The Consortium is dedicated to maintaining the integrity of this certification through rigorous controls and continuous monitoring.
The Consortium also promotes Grana Padano’s recognition in global markets, using targeted marketing campaigns and partnerships with retailers and chefs. Its initiatives aim to educate consumers on the traditional production process and the nutritional benefits of the cheese.
Grana Padano is distinguished by its rich history and strict production regulations that ensure only the finest quality cheese. The Consortium’s focus on quality control, traceability, and the preservation of traditional production methods is a key differentiator. Its core Unique Selling Proposition (USP) lies in its combination of heritage, authenticity, and superior taste, all protected under the PDO certification.
Additionally, Grana Padano is highly versatile, offering different aging profiles that suit various culinary needs. Its widespread recognition and demand in international markets make it a standout product in the cheese sector.
As a market leader in the cheese industry, Grana Padano enjoys strong global demand. In 2020, over 5 million wheels of Grana Padano were produced, with exports accounting for more than 60% of total production. The cheese is sold in over 120 countries, with major markets including the United States, Germany, and France. Its annual sales are valued in the hundreds of millions of euros.
Consorzio Tutela Grana Padano has demonstrated impressive international reach, with significant export volumes. According to trade reports, the Consortium shipped over 200,000 tons of Grana Padano worldwide in the last year, contributing substantially to the Italian economy.
The United States is a key market, where Grana Padano competes against other Italian cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano. The cheese has seen an annual growth rate of 10% in exports to North America alone, underlining its growing appeal in international markets.
As a PDO-certified product, Grana Padano adheres to the strictest regulations governing quality, production processes, and traceability. The Consortium is responsible for ensuring compliance with these standards, making regular inspections of all production facilities. The ethical standards within the Consortium are guided by Model 231, a framework that promotes transparency and the prevention of unethical conduct within the organization.
Grana Padano is consumed by a wide range of customers, including:
The brand targets premium cheese lovers, as well as health-conscious individuals, given its nutritional profile, which is rich in protein and calcium while being lower in fat compared to other cheeses.
The Consorzio Tutela Grana Padano’s capabilities extend beyond quality control and production monitoring to include marketing, global distribution, and consumer education. The organization has established partnerships with renowned chefs, retailers, and food influencers to increase the visibility of Grana Padano. It also offers training programs to help producers maintain consistent product quality.
Grana Padano has received high praise from customers and industry experts alike. Notable chefs and culinary figures have lauded the cheese for its versatility and flavor. Consumers have praised the consistency of the cheese and its ability to enhance various dishes. Testimonials often highlight the smooth texture, distinct flavor, and rich aftertaste of Grana Padano.
Consorzio Tutela Grana Padano is a pillar of quality in the global dairy industry. By preserving traditional methods and focusing on the highest standards of production, the Consortium has successfully maintained the reputation of Grana Padano as one of the finest cheeses worldwide. Through continued innovation and a strong commitment to ethical practices, Grana Padano is poised to maintain its leadership in the global cheese market for years to come.
