Gorgonzola PDO has set a new production milestone, with 5,277,959 wheels crafted in 2024—a record, according to the Protection Consortium. The figure reflects a 1.9% rise from 2023, as member companies across 15 provinces in Piedmont and Lombardy produced nearly 99,000 additional wheels.
Piedmont continues to dominate production, accounting for 3,822,245 wheels (+1.73%), while Lombardy contributed 1,455,714 wheels, a stronger relative growth of 2.38%.
Antonio Auricchio, president of the Consortium, hailed the achievement: “Exceeding five million wheels underscores our position as a cornerstone of Italy’s certified food sector. We rank sixth among all protected food products nationally and third among Italian cow’s milk PDO cheeses. This success is rooted in our commitment to quality, ensuring Gorgonzola remains a favorite for millions globally.”
SPICY SUCCESS
The spicy variety of Gorgonzola PDO drove much of the growth. Production of the “piccante” type surged by 20.47% to 738,935 wheels, now accounting for 14% of the total output.
GORGONZOLA PDO’S EXPORTS ON THE RISE
Exports also rose, with 1.6 million wheels shipped abroad by September 2024—5% higher than the previous year. However, Auricchio voiced concerns over geopolitical headwinds: “While exports remain robust, proposed tariffs policies by the incoming U.S. administration could spell trouble. Without strong economic and diplomatic backing for Made in Italy goods, expanded production alongside shrinking exports would be a severe blow.”
In 2023, Gorgonzola PDO production was valued at €430 million (+12% year-on-year), while exports contributed €203 million (+38%).
LOOKING EASTWARD
The Consortium has ambitious plans for 2025. It will showcase Gorgonzola PDO at Tokyo’s Foodex in March, including a reception at the Italian Embassy, followed by appearances at Milan’s Tuttofood, New York’s Fancy Food, and Germany’s Anuga later in the year.
“These events,” Auricchio noted, “are vital to ensuring that our cheeses remain celebrated worldwide.”