The new Ismea-Qualivita Report on agri-food and wine production with PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) and PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) designations has revealed the foods with the highest production value in Italy in 2024. The data shows the ten Italian excellences that most boosted the economy in the agri-food sector.
Read also Discover here what the acronyms DOC, DOP, and IGP mean.
Below are the products that make up the top 10.
1. Grana Padano DOP – €2,185 billion
Grana Padano DOP occupies the top spot in the ranking. Its production value increased by 23,3% compared to 2023, surpassing the two billion euro mark. This significant growth reflects strong domestic and international demand for this traditional, long-aged cheese.
2. Parmigiano Reggiano DOP – €1,727 billion
Right behind it is Parmigiano Reggiano DOP, with growth of 7,2%. A symbol of Italian gastronomy, this cheese, produced in Emilia-Romagna and part of Lombardy, remains one of the most prized in Europe.
3. Prosciutto di Parma DOP – €860 million
Despite a 9,5% drop compared to 2023, Prosciutto di Parma DOP maintains a prominent position on the podium. Its name, protected by law since 1996, remains synonymous with quality and tradition.
4. Mozzarella di Bufala Campana PDO – €529 million
Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP experienced a slight growth of 0,2%. This data shows stability in the market, maintaining the product among the most valuable in Italy, with particular emphasis on its strong presence in the Campania region.
5. Gorgonzola DOP – €460 million
Gorgonzola DOP grew by 7,1% this year and ranks fifth. The blue cheese, produced mainly in Lombardy and Piedmont, was also recently chosen as one of the best in the world.
6. Prosciutto San Daniele DOP – €402 million
Prosciutto San Daniele DOP, traditional from Friuli-Venezia Giulia, saw an 8,5% increase in production value. The product is among the most consumed Italian cured meats.
7. Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP – €378 million
Balsamic vinegar from Modena is one of the most exported Italian products. With a 7,8% increase, Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP continues to be one of the most recognized items outside of Italy.
8. Mortadella Bologna IGP – €343 million
Mortadella Bologna PGI rose 1,1%. In relation to 2023. An icon of Italian charcuterie, the product remains highly valued, with wide national distribution and a presence in international markets.
9. Pecorino Romano DOP – €338 million
In ninth place is Pecorino Romano DOP, a traditional cheese from the Lazio and Sardinia regions. This hard sheep's milk cheese remains one of the most important in terms of volume and value.
10. Pasta di Gragnano IGP – €303 million
Rounding out the top 10 is Pasta di Gragnano IGP. This pasta, produced in the town of the same name in the Campania region, is renowned for its artisanal tradition. Its production value has grown steadily in recent years.
Outside the top 10
Some important products were left out of the list of the ten most valuable, but they still have a strong presence in the market: Bresaola della Valtellina IGP, Asiago DOP, Speck Alto Adige IGP, Mela Alto Adige IGP and Terra di Bari DOP (olive oil).
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