“Historical Importance”: The Cheese of Tafí del Valle, Produced for Over 500 Years, is the First Dairy Product in the Country with Geographical Indication
The cheese from Tafí del Valle in Tucumán, Argentina, has been officially recognized as the country's first dairy product with Geographical Indication, marking a significant cultural and historical milestone.
The cheese from Tafí del Valle has been awarded Geographical Indication (GI) recognition, making it the first dairy product in Argentina to receive this status. The announcement comes from the National Advisory Commission on Geographical Indications and Designations of Origin, which approved the request from local producers and experts involved in the cheese-making process. This achievement is expected to be formalized within the next ten days through an official resolution from the Tucumán government.
This recognition signifies not only a historical milestone for the province of Tucumán but also enhances the cultural and culinary identity of the region. The production of cheese in Tafí del Valle dates back to the arrival of Jesuits in the late 1500s, entwining the product with the province's rich history. The importance of this GI status is underscored by its uniqueness—this is the first GI designation for cheeses in Argentina and the second GI recognition for Tucumán province, the first being the lemon blossom honey designation awarded in 2023.
By establishing the Geographical Indication for Tafí del Valle cheese, authorities aim to protect the heritage associated with its production and encourage sustainable practices among local producers. This step is anticipated to boost local economies and promote the region as a significant player in Argentina's dairy industry, potentially attracting tourism and further investment in traditional cheese-making practices.