Parmigiano Reggiano: tradition and modernity One of the key characteristics of Italian produce is the combination of age-old traditions, craftsmanship, genuine connections to the land and timeless fl avours in one product. Parmigiano Reggiano holds all these features. It was fi rst made in the 12th century by Benedictine and Cistercian monks who, as well as carrying out land reclamation works, agricultural labour and animal husbandry activities, became experts in dairy production. Parmigiano Reggiano is a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) product, with an unbreakable link with the land where it is produced. The area of origin includes the provinces of Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna to the left of the Reno river and Mantua to the right of the Po river. Not only the cheese but also the milk destined for the production of Parmigiano Reggiano can only be produced in this area: 3348 farms producing the milk then processed in 363 dairies. This was the beginning of the long history of Parmigiano Reggiano, which has retained the essential traits of its originality, despite the passing of time. To this day, the production techniques used to create Parmigiano Reggiano have changed very little, still using the same original ingredients (milk, salt and rennet, without using any additives). It stands out as a real exception in the landscape of world cheese production. Few Protected Designation of Origin cheeses are made in such a natural way, with a preserving process that depends not on added elements but only on the quality of the milk, on artisanal techniques and on a long maturation overseen by experts. The dairies and milk producers in the land of origin are intrinsically involved in preserving this identity. Parmigiano Reggiano is more than a product, even in this globalised world that tends to commoditise everything. It remains an experience lived by people with strong connections to the product and to their homeland. For further information visit Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese Consortium website www.parmigianoreggiano.com
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