Prodotto agroalimentare tradizionale facts for kids

Prodotto agroalimentare tradizionale (PAT) is a special way to approve traditional Italian foods. It's like a stamp of approval for foods that have been made in the same way for a long time in specific parts of Italy. This system is similar to the "Protected Geographical Status" used by the European Union for many famous foods.

The PAT approval is given by the Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policies. This ministry keeps a list of all approved products. The PAT system is only for products that don't qualify for the bigger European Union approvals. This means PAT is only used within Italy.

Each region in Italy works with the Ministry to decide which foods get the PAT label.

In 2019, there were 5128 products with PAT approval. The region with the most approved products was Campania, which had 531.

What Are PAT Products?

PAT products are grouped into ten main types. This helps to organize all the different traditional foods.

Types of PAT Products

Here are the ten categories for PAT products:

• Drinks: Like special traditional beverages.
• Meats: Such as cured meats or sausages made in a traditional way.
• Condiments: These are things like sauces or spices that add flavor to food.
• Cheeses: Many unique Italian cheeses have PAT status.
• Oils and fats: Including special olive oils or animal fats.
• Vegetables and vegetable products: Foods made from plants, like preserved vegetables.
• Pasta, bread and patisserie: Traditional kinds of pasta, breads, and sweet pastries.
• Delicatessen: This includes special prepared foods, often ready to eat.
• Fish and seafood: Traditional dishes or preserved fish from coastal areas.
• Other animal products: Any other products from animals not covered above.