BANJA LUKA ĆEVAPI OFFICIALLY RECOGNIZED AS A PROTECTED TRADITIONAL BRAND

Banja Luka's world-famous ćevapi have officially strengthened their status as one of the city's most recognizable culinary symbols. By the end of July, the City of Banja Luka will award the GTS (Guaranteed Traditional Specialty) designation to restaurants that meet the required standards, confirming that they serve authentic Banja Luka ćevapi prepared according to the officially protected traditional recipe.

The certification follows the successful registration of the Banja Luka ćevap as a Guaranteed Traditional Specialty (GTS) in September 2024, a milestone achieved with the support of the city administration. The designation officially recognizes the authenticity of its traditional recipe and unique preparation method.

Aleksandra Simić from the City's Department for Economy and Local Economic Development said the municipal government also supported the establishment of the Association for the Preservation of the Guaranteed Traditional Specialty "Banja Luka Ćevap," which played a crucial role in securing this prestigious certification.

According to city officials, the next objective is to expand the protection system by including a larger number of restaurants that prepare and serve authentic Banja Luka ćevapi in accordance with the protected standards.

Nebojša Kuštrinović, promoter of Ćevap Fest, Banja Luka's popular gastronomic event dedicated to celebrating the city's iconic dish, emphasized that the Banja Luka ćevap stands out for its distinctive flavor, appearance, and traditional serving style.

He also noted that one of the defining characteristics of the specialty is the somun (traditional flatbread), which is baked in specially designed high-temperature ovens and forms an essential part of the authentic dining experience.

The official GTS designation represents another important step in preserving the city's culinary heritage while strengthening Banja Luka's reputation as a leading gastro-tourism destination in Bosnia and Herzegovina. As more restaurants join the certification system, visitors will be able to easily identify venues offering the genuine Banja Luka ćevap prepared according to the original, protected recipe.