What does it mean if a cheese is given appellation origine controlee?

The designation "Appellation d'origine contrôlée" (AOC) is a certification used in France to identify farm products such as cheese, butter, wine, and meat whose production is controlled and regulated under specific geographical locations and production methods. For a product to be awarded the AOC label, it must meet a strict set of criteria that are outlined in a legal document called a "cahier des charges."

Key Points:

Origin and Quality Control: AOC certification aims to protect and preserve the authenticity, traditional methods, and reputation of specific food products. It ensures that these products are made in a specific geographical area and comply with traditional production techniques.

Strict Regulations: AOC regulations cover various aspects of production, including the breed of animals, the type of feed they receive, the milk's composition, the cheesemaking process, ripening methods, and the geographical limits within which the product can be made.

Link to Terroir: AOC cheeses are often associated with a particular terroir, which refers to the unique characteristics of the region where the cheese is produced. Factors like soil, climate, and local traditions influence the final taste and quality of the cheese.

Consumer Assurance: The AOC label provides consumers with a guarantee that the product they are purchasing meets specific standards and comes from a defined region. It also contributes to the preservation and promotion of local heritage and traditional craftsmanship.

Examples of AOC Cheeses:

Comté: A hard, pressed cheese from the Jura mountains in eastern France.

Roquefort: A blue cheese made from sheep's milk and matured in the natural caves of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon.

Brie de Meaux: A soft, creamy cheese from the Brie region east of Paris.

Camembert de Normandie: A soft, bloomy rind cheese from the Normandy region in northwestern France.

AOC certification adds value and recognition to food products, ensuring their authenticity and allowing consumers to make informed choices based on specific taste profiles and production standards.