• Modica chocolate is the first European chocolate with a Protected Geographical Indication.
In an event held recently in the Sicilian city of Modica, the Italian Ministry of Agriculture recognized, assigning to it all the functions provided by law, the new consortium for the protection of Modica Chocolate.
In 2003, with the establishment of the local guardianship consortium of this product, which brings together all the small producers, the official production standards were codified, and the European Union standard was obtained in 2018. Thus, Modica chocolate, produced in Sicily, it was recognized as a product with a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), marking a first in Europe for this category. This recognition underlines the cultural and traditional value of the product, which thus becomes the 183rd Italian product registered PGI
A thousand-year history and a unique manufacturing process
roots Modica chocolates it goes back to the Aztec era, when cacao was considered a divine gift. The traditional preparation method, brought to Sicily in the 45th century by the Spanish, is inspired by ancient Mexican techniques. Unlike modern industrial methods, Modica chocolate is made cold, at temperatures of no more than XNUMX°C, which keeps the sugar crystals intact and gives the product a distinctive, grainy texture.
With no added cocoa butter or additives, the chocolate is made only from roasted and ground cocoa mass, cane sugar and sometimes spices (cinnamon, hot pepper) or natural ingredients such as lemon, orange and almonds. This artisanal method preserves the authentic flavors and health benefits of the cocoa beans.
PGI recognition and community impact
The recognition of PGI certification reinforces the city's reputation as a center of gastronomic excellence and draws attention to the importance of supporting traditional products. In addition, the Modica Chocolate Museum, inaugurated in 2014, promotes the history and production methods of this chocolate, offering an engaging experience for visitors.
Modica chocolate it is more than a dessert; it is a testament to a cultural heritage that combines tradition, sustainability and authentic taste. And the ChocoModica 2024 event, held for three days in the Sicilian city, was a celebration of the success of this sweet but also of the efforts of the locals to make their values known.
Article source: ChocoModica 2024, novelty for the consorzio di tutela del cioccolato PGI
Article written by Gabriela Dan, Editor-in-Chief Arta Albă
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