TRADITIONAL KAJMAK FROM BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA MOVES CLOSER TO EU PROTECTION

The application for Gacko kajmak from mješina (traditional leather sack) to receive protected designation of origin status at the European Union level is currently in the registration process, said Dragan Brenjo, Head of the Department for Certification and Food Labeling at the Food Safety Agency of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

PHOTO: Trebinje danas

Speaking at a workshop held in Gacko, Brenjo stated that Gacko kajmak from mješina has been protected with a designation of origin in Bosnia and Herzegovina since August 2024, while the European Commission accepted the application for EU-level protection in September last year.

Brenjo presented producers with key information regarding the progress achieved so far and the procedures related to the protection of food products in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Agency announced.

Special attention at the workshop was dedicated to regulations concerning the labeling of products with geographical origin protection in both Bosnia and Herzegovina and the EU, as well as practical examples of labeling under different market conditions.

Additional explanations were provided on the use of bilingual product names at the EU level, rules regarding mandatory and voluntary symbols on declarations and accompanying documentation, packaging methods in accordance with product specifications, and regulations on packaging materials intended for food contact.

Particular focus was placed on brand development, including visual identity, the importance of geographical indication labels, and improving product design. Experiences of protected food products from other countries were also presented.

The Agency emphasized that the strength of Gacko kajmak lies in the work of the Producers’ Association and the dedication of its members. They added that concrete progress is already visible in terms of quality and recognition, while the greatest results are expected in the coming years.