Piedmontese extra virgin olive oil: product specification and suggestions for obtaining a PDO (protected designation of origin) certification

Production of extra virgin olive oil in Italy is concentrated on the mainland. However, there are also some niche producers in Northern Italy located in the more sheltered lake areas, as well as other areas that are particularly suited for this purpose. Specifically, there are areas in Piedmont where olive trees flourish and from which an olive oil is produced with specific characteristic qualities. The purpose of this paper is to examine the potential of this Piedmontese extra virgin olive oil production with the aim of obtaining the European Community PDO certification. This document provides a review of the production structure, as well as the regulations governing the production of olive oils for which PDO certification is sought from the Consortium responsible for safeguarding the production of extra virgin olive oil in Piedmont.