Latest news with #PDO-certified
Cision Canada
01-07-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Saffron, Olives, and More: Discover Premium Greek Agricultural Products in Canada's Market Français
Canada is getting a true taste of the Mediterranean, as a new wave of PDO-certified Greek products—like saffron, olives and currants arrives to delight chefs, retailers, and food lovers across the country. TORONTO, July 1, 2025 /CNW/ -- The National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives of Greece (ETHEAS) is proud to spotlight the richness of Greek agriculture through its participation in the EU co-funded "Premium European Products" campaign. As part of the campaign's presence at SIAL Canada 2025, Greek PDO-certified specialties took center stage—offering Canadian professionals and consumers the opportunity to experience some of the finest products the Mediterranean has to offer. Recent data from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada confirms Canada's growing appetite for Mediterranean and EU-origin foods. In 2024, imports from the EU saw significant increases across several categories featured in this campaign: olive oil and olives rose by +33.9%, spices (including saffron) by +24.9%, dairy products by +12.8%, and dried fruits by +9.9%. (Source: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, "EU Agri-Food Trade Factsheet – 2024 Update.") Consumer behavior insights from Innova Market Insights in mid–2024 highlight that 39% of Canadians are actively experimenting with flavors at home—particularly Mediterranean ones, which are now the country's most cooked international cuisine after North American and Chinese. Driven by health, convenience, and openness to global flavors, 47% of Canadians have shifted toward home cooking, combining scratch cooking with flavor experimentation using sauces, seasonings, and toppings. This aligns perfectly with Greek PDO products such as robust olives, richly aromatic saffron, and distinctive currants—ingredients that enhance at-home culinary creativity while fulfilling demand for quality, provenance, and traceability. Among the standout offerings now available to the Canadian market are: PDO Krokos Kozanis Saffron: Known as "red gold," Greek saffron is prized for its deep color, powerful flavor, and delicate floral aroma. Hand-harvested in the Kozani region, it's one of the world's most valuable spices. PDO Konservolia Rovion and Konservolia Stylidas Olives: These olives, grown under the Greek sun, are beloved for their firm texture and balanced flavor. Ideal for table enjoyment or gourmet spreads, they bring the Mediterranean diet to life. PDO Korinthiaki Stafida Vostizza: Tiny in size but bold in flavor, these sun-dried Corinthian currants hail from the northern Peloponnese. Naturally sweet and nutrient-rich, they're perfect for snacking, baking, and more. PDO Hard Cheeses: Made from sheep's and goat's milk, these traditional Greek cheeses offer savory complexity and aging potential, reflecting centuries of artisanal craftsmanship. Chios PDO Mastiha and Mastiha Oil: Harvested exclusively on Chios, this natural resin offers a distinctive pine-herbal profile used in both gastronomy and wellness. Protected by PDO status, it's as rare as it is versatile. A Commitment to Quality and Trust The Premium European Products campaign reinforces the EU's globally respected standards, which include strict pesticide controls and high hygiene regulations in processing. Greek producers bring traditional methods and natural farming practices to the global stage, offering products that are both nutritious and full of character. Branded with visuals inspired by Europe's landscapes and heritage, the campaign invites Canadians to experience the deep-rooted traditions and uncompromising standards behind every product. Join the Movement: Connect with Premium European Products We invite Canadian food professionals, chefs, retailers, and distributors to explore collaboration opportunities with the "Premium European Products" campaign. For more information on where to find these premium products or to learn how to partner with the campaign, please visit email us to [email protected] or follow us on social media: Instagram: Instagram Facebook: Facebook You Tube: YouTube. ETHEAS and LDC invite Canadian importers, distributors, and foodservice leaders to explore these exceptional European products and form collaborations that support shared goals of quality, transparency, and sustainability. About "PREMIUM EUROPEAN PRODUCTS" PROGRAM The campaign:" Premium European Products: Better Knowledge, Better Choices" is co-funded by the European Union and managed by the National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives of Greece (ETHEAS) and the Latvian Dairy Committee (LDC). It aims to promote exquisite added-value products in Canada, South Korea, and Malaysia, including PDO olive oils, table olives, dried grapes, saffron, hard cheese, gum, and gum oil from Greece, as well as dairy products, candied fruits, chocolates, confectionery, and salty snacks from Latvia. Spanning from 2024 to 2026, the program seeks to significantly elevate the profile of European products in these markets through a four-pronged approach: raising awareness, enhancing recognition among consumers, increasing consumption, and boosting exports to Canada, Malaysia, and South Korea. The beneficiaries: The National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives of Greece (ETHEAS), established by the Greek State Law, coordinates over 300 agricultural cooperatives across Greece, representing about 80% of the total turnover of such cooperatives. It focuses on rural and cooperative development, supports member activities domestically and internationally, issues opinions on agricultural matters, supervises cooperative promotion, and conducts educational activities. The Latvian Dairy Committee (LDC), established in 1995, represents Latvian milk producers and aims to protect their interests. It consists of 17 members producing approximately 80% of industrially produced milk in Latvia.
Time of India
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Chef Guntas Sethi spills the beans on fuss-free cooking, European flavours and feel-good food
In a world where Instagram-worthy meals often come with complicated recipes and hard-to-pronounce ingredients, this chef is keeping it real. Known for her fuss-free, café-style cooking that actually makes sense in home kitchens, she's on a mission to decode food so anyone—even with zero professional training—can whip up something nourishing and exciting. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now From swapping maida for oats flour to using goat cheese from Spain in everyday salads, her cooking isn't just about health—it's about flavor, joy, and creativity. As the Indian ambassador for the EU's 'More Than Food' campaign, she's also been championing European ingredients that are high on quality, safety, and sustainability. Whether it's dark chocolate from Belgium, PDO-certified olive oil from Italy, or a twist of feta cheese in your paratha wrap, she's all for creating magic with ingredients that come with a story. In this candid conversation with Vaibhavi V Risbood, Editor, ETimes , Chef Guntas Sethi, European Union's 'More Than Food' Campaign Ambassador talks about finding her voice as a chef, why plant-based cooking is here to stay, how European elements are winning hearts in Indian kitchens, and what makes a dish unforgettable. Expect recipe swaps, superfood secrets, and plenty of food for thought—no fancy plating required. Was there a defining moment that made you feel you'd found your unique voice as a chef? When I realized there are people out there who are actually trusting the recipes and taking out their time to recreate them at home and they're able to do so, for me that was the defining moment to understand that my voice as a chef may not necessarily be to create experiences for people to come and dine at, but instead to enable them to make cafe-like food at home and decode it for them. How would you describe your cooking style in three words? Fuss-free, decoded café-style, nourishing. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now You've often focused on healthy eating—how do you make nutritious food exciting? I think it's easy to make your regular food nutritious by focusing on ingredients that are better for you and swapping the ones that have a lot of additives. For example, you can swap out Maida for oats flour, or cream for whipped Dahi. You can always swap ingredients for more nutrient-dense alternatives. I also ensure that the ingredients I use are authentic, safe, sustainable, and of high quality, which aligns perfectly with my goal of healthy eating. Ingredients from the European Union uphold these values, making them my preferred choice for curating nutritious dishes. Additionally, I enjoy adding a twist to my food to make it exciting for others to try. Unique pairings, such as Pear with Φέτα /Feta Cheese PDO from Greece or creating a delicious salad using Goat Cheese from Spain with roasted Beetroot, are wonderful ways to make food not only delicious but also equally healthy. There has been a growing demand for premium European chocolates in India's gourmet food scene. What are your thoughts on the same? As Indians, back in the day, the way we celebrated every occasion or event was by having mithai. Now, with time and access to ovens, we see more cakes going around, and so many different pâtisseries opening up, that also increases the demand for premium European chocolates. European chocolates adhere to strict safety standards, even those produced by small family-run ateliers. Notable examples of European chocolate craftsmanship include the Dark Chocolate bar 50% Cocoa from Belgium, Dark Chocolate Bar 70% from Ireland, Cranberry Chocolate from Germany, Dark 64% Cocoa Chocolate Bar from Poland, Dark Chocolate 50% from Spain and more are renowned for their exceptional quality and intense flavor. European chocolates have always been synonymous with quality, which explains their growing demand. What are the most underrated superfoods you use regularly? Dark chocolate Chia seeds Flax seeds Pumpkin seeds Hemp powder Sweet potatoes What are the unique aspects of European chocolates and confectionery? Europe is celebrated for its rich traditions, authenticity, high quality, and impressive variety in chocolate, sugar, and confectionery. As the ambassador of European Union's 'More Than Food' campaign in India, I can tell you that the mandatory EU labeling on a wide range of popular baked goods and sweets ensures that only the best and safest ingredients are used in chocolates, pastries, and biscuits, making them ideal for diverse tastes and occasions. I recently crafted some delightful treats for the "Hop into Easter with the EU" event at Soho House in Mumbai using some of the finest European chocolates and ingredients. I used White Chocolate from Belgium and Dark Chocolate (70%) from Ireland for my Profiteroles with Caramelized White Chocolate and Orange Mousse and the audience loved them. I also made the crowd pleaser, Easter Eggs with Dark Guanaja (70%) Chocolate from France, White Chocolate Brownies from France, Milk Chocolate from Poland, and Milk Chocolate Callets from Belgium. I finished them with candied orange slices and Paillette Feuilletine from Belgium for that perfect citrusy pop. One unique aspect of European chocolates and confectionery is that, even though cacao is not grown in Europe, people still eagerly seek out European chocolates. Every time we travel, we want to bring back bags of it to share with friends, family, and for ourselves. This is due to the premium quality and the meticulous process from bean to bar, ensuring the finest quality and smoothest texture. They use the best cocoa butter, and strict regulations are in place to ensure that only products meeting the necessary guidelines can be called real chocolate. Europe's rich history and cultural diversity have given rise to some of the world's most famous and beloved confections, such as Italian tiramisu, German apple strudels, and Swedish Spettekaka. Many of these treats are rooted in long-standing culinary traditions that have been handed down through generations. What's your take on the current rise of plant-based cooking in India? I think it's amazing to see how, in India now, there's been a change in the culinary scenario, where people are moving towards more ingredient-led dishes. That makes it so much more interesting because people are opting for more organic products. I personally love it, and I think a dish is only as good as the ingredients you use and the way you treat them, the techniques used. And this completely focuses on that. I love incorporating vegetables from Europe due to their impeccable quality. EU quality schemes, such as PDO and PGI, further demonstrate that the fruits and vegetables from Europe are grown with love and a deep respect for tradition and the environment. Products in the PDO category must be produced entirely within a specific region, ensuring a strong link to their place of origin. For instance, over 30 Italian extra virgin olive oils carry the PDO label, guaranteeing that their entire production cycle occurs within the designated area. Food, wines, and agricultural products can be labeled PDO. A PGI label signifies the connection between a product and its region of origin. Unlike a PDO, it requires that at least one stage of production, processing, or preparation occurs in the specified region. So, whether you fancy sampling a Danish jam for breakfast, adding frozen berries from Poland to your dessert, or topping your bruschetta with sweet cherry tomatoes from Spain, you can bask in the knowledge that their consumption is filling your body with something healthy. Do you think Indian cuisine is ready to embrace more fusion with European flavors, or are we still loyal to traditional tastes? I think the Indian citizen today is someone who loves to experiment and try new things, always adding our desi tadka to whatever we are making. For example, think about an authentic pizza; we love turning it into a smoked tandoori pizza. Indians love to experiment, and even with European cuisine, there's so much you can do. For instance, you can create tandoori pasta using Gouda Holland PGI from the Netherlands, or makhani sauce pasta with Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Spain. Tandoori momo can be made even more delightful by incorporating organic Kalamata Olives from Greece. These European ingredients not only add a unique twist but also enhance the flavour and quality of the dishes. What was the response from your audience when you introduced European elements to Indian dishes? When I introduced European elements to Indian cuisine, I saw a lot of excitement and inquisitiveness. Indians are extremely excited to learn, experiment, and try new things, even give their own twist to it. The response has been extremely positive, and we've seen a lot of interest from their end. They also love the fact that ingredients from Europe follow four core values of authenticity, quality, safety and sustainability, making them a crowd favorite for all the right reasons. The add-on of special labels like the PGO and PGI further creates the appreciation and trust in ingredients from Europe.
Cision Canada
01-05-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Discover the Rich Flavors of Greece: PDO-Certified Olive Oil and Table Olives Now Available in Canada Français
PDO olive oils and table olives from Greece are now available in Canada as part of the "Premium European Products" campaign, promoting high-quality, authentic Mediterranean flavors. TORONTO, May 1, 2025 /CNW/ -- As part of the " Premium European Products: Better Knowledge, Better Choices" campaign, co-funded by the European Union, Greek PDO (Protected Designation of Origin)-certified olive oil and table olives are now available to Canadian consumers. This exciting initiative, managed by the National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives of Greece (ETHEAS), promotes high-quality, authentic Mediterranean products in Canada bringing Greece's rich culinary heritage to kitchens across Canada. A Taste of Tradition – Perfectly Aligned with Canadian Dietary Trends As Canadian consumers increasingly seek healthier, more sustainable food options, PDO-certified Greek olive oils and table olives offer the perfect addition to modern, Mediterranean-inspired diets. Greek olive oil is versatile, perfect for pairing with popular Canadian ingredients such as locally sourced vegetables, grains, and seafood. Whether drizzling on fresh Ontario tomatoes, using as a dip for artisanal Canadian bread, or incorporating into plant-forward dishes like roasted root vegetables, PDO-certified Greek olive oils and table olives complement Canada's diverse food scene. PDO-Certified Olive Oils: A Legacy of Quality and Flavor Greek olive oil is renowned for its robust, fruity, and peppery notes—an authentic addition to any kitchen. With PDO certification, these oils guarantee authenticity, craftsmanship, and sustainable production from select regions in Greece. Whether cooking, dressing salads, or simply dipping fresh bread, the following varieties are a must-try for Canadian palates: PDO Vorios Mylopotamos Rethymnis Kritis (Crete): A golden, fruity extra virgin olive oil, low in acidity, perfect for pairing with fresh salads and grilled vegetables. PDO Viannos Irakliou Kritis (Crete): A rich, golden oil with a fruity aftertaste, ideal for drizzling on roasted meats and seafood, reflecting the olive tree's symbolic role in Greek history. PDO Messara (Crete): A strong, bitter, and peppery oil, great for Mediterranean dishes such as fish and poultry. PDO Kolymvari Chanion Kritis (Crete): A cold-extracted, low-acid oil with a distinct flavor and aroma, perfect for pasta and grilled vegetables. PDO-Certified Table Olives: A Mediterranean Delight for Every Meal In addition to exceptional olive oils, PDO-certified Greek olives are now available in Canada, offering a flavorful, nutritious snack or appetizer. These olives are grown and harvested using traditional methods to ensure premium quality and authentic taste. Perfect for pairing with local Canadian cheeses, wines, or adding to Mediterranean-inspired dishes, these olives elevate any table: PDO Konservolia Rovion (Central Greece): With a crispy texture and characteristic olive oil aroma, these olives are perfect for snacking or adding to salads. PDO Konservolia Stylidas (Fthiotida): Known for its rich flavor, these olives thrive in a unique microclimate, making them a great addition to any Mediterranean-inspired platter. A Match Made for Canadian Kitchens: Pairing Olive Oil and Olives with Local Products Pairing Greek PDO olive oils with locally sourced Canadian foods creates a harmonious blend of Mediterranean and Canadian flavors. Consider pairing PDO Kolymvari Chanion Kritis Olive Oil with Canadian salmon, or PDO Konservolia Rovion Olives with a Canadian goat cheese platter. These Mediterranean products are not just a treat—they are part of the growing movement towards healthier, more sustainable food choices, perfectly aligned with Canada's evolving culinary landscape. Call-to-Action: Professionals, Engage with the Campaign We invite Canadian food professionals, chefs, retailers, and distributors to explore collaboration opportunities with the "Premium European Products" campaign. By offering PDO-certified Greek olive oils and olives in your businesses, you can bring the authentic flavors of Greece to Canadian customers while tapping into the growing demand for premium, Mediterranean-inspired products. For more information on where to find these premium products or to learn how to partner with the campaign, please visit email us to [email protected] or follow us on social media: About "PREMIUM EUROPEAN PRODUCTS" PROGRAM The campaign:" Premium European Products: Better Knowledge, Better Choices" is co-funded by the European Union and managed by the National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives of Greece (ETHEAS) and the Latvian Dairy Committee (LDC). It aims to promote exquisite added-value products in Canada, South Korea, and Malaysia, including PDO olive oils, table olives, dried grapes, saffron, hard cheese, gum, and gum oil from Greece, as well as dairy products, candied fruits, chocolates, confectionery, and salty snacks from Latvia. Spanning from 2024 to 2026, the program seeks to significantly elevate the profile of European products in these markets through a four-pronged approach: raising awareness, enhancing recognition among consumers, increasing consumption, and boosting exports to Canada, Malaysia, and South Korea. The beneficiaries: The National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives of Greece (ETHEAS), established by the Greek State Law, coordinates over 300 agricultural cooperatives across Greece, representing about 80% of the total turnover of such cooperatives. It focuses on rural and cooperative development, supports member activities domestically and internationally, issues opinions on agricultural matters, supervises cooperative promotion, and conducts educational activities. The Latvian Dairy Committee (LDC), established in 1995, represents Latvian milk producers and aims to protect their interests. It consists of 17 members producing approximately 80% of industrially produced milk in Latvia.
