Counterfeited Tuscan Oil: stop at sales at Harrods in London.

The Bureau for the repression of frauds and protection and quality of food products led by the Ministry of Agriculture had asked in recent weeks to block the sale of "Tuscan extra-virgin olive oil", bottled in the UK and marketed under the brand “Harrods” as the label made explicit references to Tuscan Extra virgin olive oil registered as a IGP in 1998.


According to the Italian Minister of Agriculture, “ The suspension of the marketing of olive oil , sold as Tuscan in violation of the rules on geographical indications,  is a testimony to the strong commitment that Italy continues to combat counterfeiting. The defense of protected designations of origin and heritage of excellence of our food is the field where the daily pledge the best forces of the inspection bodies linked to the ministry. The protection and promotion of the authentic Made in Italy in the world is a top priority of this government, as well as a strategic mission for the national economy . The result then is a further confirmation of the importance of European laws and our ability to ask for the correct application of the Community”.

The new "Made in Italy" Trademark for Food.

On 31 January 2014 the Italian Government announced the passing of a bill containing new provisions to support Made in Italy with respect to simplification, competitiveness and the reorganization of the agri-food sector.

Among the changes planned in order to improve the competitiveness of the agri-food sector - crucial to revive the Italian economy - especially in view of the Expo 2015 , is the creation of a brand for related to  “Made in Italy” food , that will help consumers around the world to recognize genuine Italian products. The trademark will be private, voluntary and in line with European legislation and will make an important contribution in fighting counterfeited Italian food products , which damages Italian exports for around 60 billion Euros  each year.