What does PAT certified mean?

Here is a brief explanation of what PAT-certified labels mean in Italy. It’s probably a good idea to read what a DOP certified and IGP certified product is so that you can compare!

PAT (“Prodotti Agroalimentari Tradizionali”) is an Italian national designation for traditional food products, distinct from EU quality schemes such as DOP or IGP.

PAT exists to recognize and protect regional products made with traditional methods for at least 25 years, especially those that don’t fit into EU schemes like DOP or IGP, or those with smaller yields. Therefore, each Italian region has compiled a list of food products that have been made using traditional methods in a specific geographical area for at least 25 years, and they all fall under the category of PAT.

As of 2023, the registry of PAT products reaches over 5,200 traditional food products in the official list, with Lazio boasting one of the richest registries of all regions.