Protected Geographical Indication, Protected Designation of Origin and Traditional Speciality Guaranteed in the UK

• Food Preparation and Nutrition
• Upper Secondary (Key Stage 4)
• GCSE

Protected Geographical Indication, Protected Designation of Origin and Traditional Speciality Guaranteed in the UK

Introduction

This lesson will cover the legal protection offered in the UK to food and drink products with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) statuses.

Explain that the slides to follow will be exploring this topic in detail.

PGI

PGI status is a sign of quality, distinguishing a food or drink product as originating from a specific place, region or country.

Explain that it is determined by the product's qualities, reputation or characteristics being linked to that area.

PDO

PDO status indicates that the product is produced, processed and prepared in a certain geographical area utilising the traditional methods and ingredients.

Explain that these products must also possess a specific reputation, quality and/or characteristic due to its geographical origin.

TSG

TSG products are traditionally made foods in Europe which have a specific reputation, quality and/or characteristics attributed to their traditional composition.

Explain that the product production and preparation process must have occurred over a long period of time and must have been a part of the local culture.

UK PGI/PDO/TSG Examples

In the UK there are examples such as Scotch Beef, Melton Mowbray Pork Pie, Clotted Cream and Arbroath Smokie.

Explain the unique characteristics of each example mentioned.

Advatanges

The main advantages of having these statuses are the product's authenticity and quality being recognised, alongside the assurance for the consumer that the product comes from an approved source.

Explain the importance of these advantages to the consumer.

Disadvantages

However, some producers find obtaining these statuses difficult due to the cost and paperwork required. Also, it may be that the product produced using the traditional techniques is not up to standard.

Explain the implications of these disadvantages to producers.

Summary

To summarise, PGI, PDO and TSG statuses in the UK are a sign of quality, authenticity and location-specific product characteristics.

Encourage students to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these statuses further in pairs or small groups.

Quiz

Take the quiz below to test your knowledge on PGI, PDO and TSG statuses.

Encourage the students to complete the quiz individually or as a group.

Discussion

Discuss the following: Do you think PGI, PDO and TSG statuses are important?

Encourage the students to discuss their opinions in pairs or small groups, then have representatives share their findings with the class.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this lesson has explored the background of PGI, PDO and TSG statuses, the advantages and disadvantages of obtaining these statuses, as well as giving students the opportunity to express their opinion.

Encourage the students to reflect on the topics discussed in the lesson.

Assessment

Evaluate how well the student has understood PGI, PDO and TSG statuses.

Ask the students to complete a short multiple choice test or answer three questions about the lesson topic and discuss their answers.

Reflection

Reflect on the lesson's topics, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of PGI, PDO and TSG statuses.

Encourage the students to discuss the topics deeper, using the knowledge they have gained throughout the lesson.