Alkuperämerkintä

Alkuperämerkintä refers to a system of geographical indications used in Finland to protect and promote agricultural products and foodstuffs. It signifies that a product originates from a specific geographical area and possesses qualities or a reputation attributable to that origin. This designation helps consumers identify genuine regional products and supports local producers by differentiating their goods in the market.

There are two main types of geographical indications under the Finnish system, aligning with European Union regulations. The first is suojattu alkuperänimitys (SAN), which translates to Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). Products with SAN status must be produced, processed, and prepared in a defined geographical area, with all stages of production taking place within that region. The quality and characteristics of the product are fundamentally and exclusively due to its geographical environment, including natural and human factors.

The second type is suojattu maantieteellinen merkintä (SMM), equivalent to Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). For SMM products, at least one stage of production, processing, or preparation must occur in the defined geographical area. While the product's quality, reputation, or other characteristic is linked to its geographical origin, not all production steps necessarily need to take place within that area. The Finnish Food Authority (Ruokavirasto) is responsible for overseeing the application and management of these origin markings within Finland.