The secret of its global success
Parma ham is universally recognized as one of the symbols of Italian gastronomic excellence. Its thousand-year history, the artisanal working techniques and the importance of PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) certifications make it a fundamental pillar of Made in Italy in the world.
History and processing of Parma ham PDO
The origins of Prosciutto di Parma date back to Roman times. Already in the third century BC, Cato the Censor described the practice of preserving pork legs through salting and drying, a method that closely resembles the current process of production of ham
Over the centuries, the tradition has been consolidated, with the “lardaroli” of Parma that in the Middle Ages refined the processing techniques, making the ham famous throughout Italy and beyond
The production of Prosciutto di Parma is closely linked to its territory. The whole process must take place in a specific area of the province of Parma, located south of the Via Emilia, at least 5 km from it, up to an altitude of 900 metres, bounded on the east by the river Enza and on the west by the stream Stirone
This area offers ideal climatic conditions for natural aging, giving the ham its characteristic sweetness and unmistakable taste.
The processing follows traditional methods: after a rigorous selection of the pork legs, salting, drying and a long maturation that can last up to 24 months. During this period, the ham develops its unique organoleptic qualities, the result of a combination of environmental factors and the experience of the ham masters.
The role of PDO and PGI certifications in Italian agri-food export
Quality certifications, such as PDO and PGI (Protected Geographical Indication), play a crucial role in enhancing and protecting Italian agri-food products on international markets. These certificates guarantee the origin, quality and respect of production traditions, giving consumers the certainty to buy authentic products of high standard.
According to the Ismea-Qualivita 2024 Report, the Italian agri-food and wine sector PDO and PGI has reached a total value of 20.2 billion euros, with exports representing 11.6 billion euros
This shows a significant growth, with an increase of 75% in the last decade. Certified products are a fundamental lever for Made in Italy worldwide, contributing substantially to the national economy and employment, with almost 850,000 jobs linked to these sectors.
The Prosciutto di Parma PDO, in particular, is one of the top products of Italian export. Its international reputation is the result of a combination of tradition, quality and conservation strategies that preserve its authenticity. Certification not only protects the product from imitations, but also increases its perceived value in foreign markets where consumers are willing to recognise certified quality.
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