IGP Pernil Cerretà: What Changes for Producers and Marketers in 2026

Key data

If you produce or market cured ham in the Cerretà region, this regulation opens a real commercial opportunity window — but it also imposes certification and control obligations that you must activate now. The Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1901 registers "Pernil Cerretà" in the European register of geographical indications, in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2024/1143.

Registration is not merely a symbolic recognition: it is a legal instrument that prevents any producer outside the protected geographical area from using this designation in the European internal market, and that requires producers covered by it to comply with the certification and control requirements established.

What does this regulation establish?

The regulation formally registers the designation "Pernil Cerretà" in the European register of geographical indications of the Union, created under Regulation (EU) 2024/1143. This has three direct and immediate consequences:

• Legal protection throughout the EU: No operator outside the Cerretà geographical area can use the designation "Pernil Cerretà" to market cured ham in any Member State of the European Union.
• Right to the European PGI logo: Producers covered by the PGI can use the official European Protected Geographical Indication logo in their labeling and commercial communications, which increases the visibility and credibility of the product in national and international markets.
• Control and certification obligations: Operators in the sector who wish to benefit from the PGI must submit to the control and certification mechanisms provided, ensuring that the product complies with the specification of the designation.

The Cerretà region is located in the Catalan Pyrenees. The PGI specifically protects cured ham produced in this geographical area, linking the product to its territorial origin as a differentiating quality factor.

Economic and operational impact

Registration in the European register generates a dual effect for operators in the sector:

From a commercial perspective, European PGIs have historically demonstrated a price premium compared to products without a designation of origin. Official European recognition also facilitates access to export markets where the PGI logo acts as a quality guarantee recognized by distributors and consumers.

The main operational cost for covered producers is that of the periodic certification and control processes required by the regulation. These costs vary depending on production volume and the designated control body, but are a necessary condition to maintain the right to use the designation.

Who does it affect?

• Cured ham producers in the Cerretà region (Catalonia): Must certify to be able to use the designation and PGI logo in their production and marketing.
• Marketers and distributors: Any company that distributes cured ham under the designation "Pernil Cerretà" must verify that the product comes from a producer certified under the PGI.
• Exporters to European markets: Protection extends to all EU Member States, so any operator exporting this product to Europe must comply with PGI requirements.
• Producers outside the Cerretà geographical area: Are expressly prohibited from using the designation "Pernil Cerretà" or designations that could cause confusion in the European market.
• Advisors and consultants in the agri-food sector: Must be aware of certification obligations to correctly advise their sector clients.

Practical example

A cured ham producer with facilities in the Cerretà region who until now marketed their product with generic labeling now has the opportunity to benefit from the PGI "Pernil Cerretà". To do so, they must:

1. Verify that their production process complies with the specification of the designation.
2. Request certification from the competent control body.
3. Once certified, incorporate the European PGI logo in their labeling and commercial materials.
4. Submit to periodic controls that ensure continued compliance with requirements.

On the other hand, a cured ham distributor who until now marketed a product from another geographical area under a designation similar to "Pernil Cerretà" must immediately remove that designation from their labeling and commercial communications, as from July 28, 2026 its use constitutes a violation of European geographical indications regulations.

What should companies do now?

1. Verify if your production area is within Cerretà: Only producers in the Cerretà region (Catalan Pyrenees) can benefit from the PGI. If your production is outside, you must ensure you do not use the designation.
2. Review current labeling: If you use designations similar to "Pernil Cerretà" without being certified, remove them immediately to avoid violations of European regulations.
3. Start the certification process: Producers within the geographical area who wish to benefit from the PGI must contact the competent control body to start the certification process.
4. Update contracts with distributors: If you market this product, ensure that your suppliers are certified under the PGI before using the designation in your commercial materials.
5. Take advantage of the European PGI logo: Once certified, incorporate the official logo in labeling, website and marketing materials to maximize the differential value in European markets.

Official source

Consult the complete regulation at official source

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific decisions, consult a qualified professional. Source: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/./legal-content/AUTO/?uri=OJ:L_202601901