On 16 September 2025, Caseificio Agricolo del Milanello had the privilege of welcoming a delegation of 40 Members of the European Parliament from the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development (AGRI, in Italian) during an inquiry into Italian and European DOP products. The visit highlighted Italy’s leading role in the number of protected designation of origin products, and particularly the role of Parmigiano Reggiano, a symbol of excellence and tradition recognised worldwide, in the development of the European agricultural sector.

Inside the heart of our production
The delegation had the opportunity to observe the cheesemaking process up close, from the milking of our cows, fed exclusively on natural local forage, and processing of fresh milk to the slow ageing of the wheels in carefully controlled humidity and temperature conditions.
We explained what makes this cheese unique: the exclusive use of raw milk without additives, the passion and skill of our cheesemakers, who follow methods handed down through generations, and the strict quality standards that ensure the excellence of every single batch.

A heritage looking to the future
During the meeting, discussions covered not only taxation, grants, and funding opportunities, but also the challenges that European agriculture will face in the coming years: sustainability, environmental protection, animal welfare, and the promotion of rural areas.
The MEPs showed particular interest in biodiversity initiatives, such as producing cheese from Rossa Reggiana milk, a historically Emilian breed that is now kept in only a limited number of farms.

A sign of trust and recognition
Being selected by the Consortium to host this event, and to demonstrate that Parmigiano Reggiano DOP is first and foremost a cultural and economic heritage to protect and support, was a true privilege for us.
The connection between institutions, the local territory, and dairies has been strengthened, providing new resources to tackle global challenges and continue to uphold the value of Made in Italy.

