AOC and AOP: what are they?

AOP means “protected designation of origin” while AOC refers to a “controlled designation of origin”.

  • AOP was created in 1992 and assures the consumer that all stages of production have been carried out according to recognized know-how in a very specific geographical area, giving it its characteristics. This sign thus protects the name of the product throughout the European Union. Thanks to him, when you buy Rocamadour AOP, you are sure to buy quality and above all no counterfeiting! There are 50 dairy products under PDO (mainly cheeses) and 44 for fruits, vegetables, olive oil, etc.
  • AOC for its part is a first step giving access to the European AOP. It also protects the name of the products but on French territory only. It can also concern dishes which are not covered by the European framework, this is particularly the case for forest products for example.