European Court Rules, Some Say Cheese

The European Court of Justice ruled Tuesday that German cheese labeled Parmesan had crossed a line, infringing on Italian Parmigiano Reggiano’s heritage.

But, the court ruled that it was up to the country of origin to enforce the ruling.

The decision was both applauded and denigrated by Italians.

Halting products like Parmesan is positive, one farmers association said. But, leaving the fight against food piracy up to the state of origin means weakening the prevention and repression of food fraud, Loredanna De Petris, the head of the Italian parliament’s farm committee said.

The head of an Italian dairy association, Giuseppe Ambrosi said he was partially satisfied, with the verdict, ANSA reported.

But the head of the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium Giuseppe Alai said the ruling, clears the field of all ambiguity.

After this ruling, only the king will be able to wear the king’s clothes, he said.