Denomination of Origin

The Denomination of Origin (DO) is a certification mark used to designate products that have a specific geographic origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. This concept is primarily associated with the food, beverage, and handicraft industries. The designation serves to protect the name of the product, ensuring that only products genuinely originating in that region are allowed to use it in commerce.

Overview

The Denomination of Origin is a form of intellectual property that is recognized under international law, specifically under the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), administered by the World Trade Organization (WTO). This system aims to prevent misleading the public and to protect producers whose products can be distinguished from others based on geographic origin and associated qualities.

Criteria

To qualify for a Denomination of Origin, a product must meet several criteria:

• The product must originate from a specific place.
• Its quality or characteristics should be primarily or exclusively due to the geographic environment, including natural and human factors.
• The production, processing, and preparation of the product must take place within the determined geographic area.

Global Examples

• Champagne from France – Only sparkling wine from the Champagne region can be legally labeled as "Champagne."
• Tequila from Mexico – A distilled beverage made from the blue agave plant, primarily in the area surrounding the city of Tequila.
• Roquefort cheese from France – This blue cheese must be made from the milk of a particular breed of sheep, and matured in the caves of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon.

Regulation and Enforcement

The enforcement of Denomination of Origin labels varies by country but typically involves a combination of national governmental authority and specific regulatory bodies. These organizations oversee the production processes, audit producers, and can take legal action against unauthorized use of the designation.

Impact

The use of Denomination of Origin can have significant economic benefits for a region, including promoting rural development, maintaining traditional practices and biodiversity, and increasing the market value of products. However, it can also lead to legal disputes and trade issues, particularly when a product name is considered generic in some jurisdictions but protected in others.

See also

• Protected Designation of Origin
• Geographical Indications
• Appellation of Origin