U.S. authorities stand up for cheese names in America

The recent tension surrounding the European Union’s tightening of what American producers call their cheese seems to have increased. Previously, as this blog noted, it was reported that nations in Europe are attempting to stand up to American companies by claiming that companies can’t use the names that are specific to regions in France and Italy.

As the State Column reports, the American government seems to be siding with those in favor of keeping the current cheese names in U.S. supermarkets because of the effect a change would have on the economy.

It might not sound like much to those outside of the business, but redefining the products, besides being an inconvenience to both these companies and their consumer audience, would also potentially narrow the market.

That’s the argument one group of senators made in a letter to the EU quoted by the State Column. If the EU got way, American varieties of Parmesan (and the like) would have to be qualified so that they include language like “Parmesan style.” Even cheeses as common as cheddar could be affected.

“Many small- or medium-sized family-owned farms and firms could have their business unfairly restricted by the EU’s push to use geographical indications as a barrier to dairy trade and competition,” they said.

A report in Connecticut Today looked at how, on a smaller, regional scale, the changes are also being opposed.

When changes do occur, the label software that you use can allow you to tailor your current labels at minimum expense. It might be a major change, but it could be lessened by your color label printer to be a smaller financial burden.