gæðmati

Gæðamati is a term used in Icelandic to describe a food product that has been granted a protected geographical indication (PGI) or protected designation of origin (PDO) status. This means that the product's quality, reputation, or other characteristic is essentially attributable to its geographical origin and the know-how involved in its production. For a product to be granted gæðamati status, it must be produced, processed, and prepared in a specific geographical area, adhering to traditional methods and strict quality standards.

The purpose of gæðamati is to protect the authenticity of traditional food products and to differentiate them in the market. It also helps consumers to identify and trust products with specific origins and qualities, ensuring that they are purchasing genuine regional specialties. The designation is awarded by relevant authorities, often at a national or European Union level, after a thorough assessment of the product and its production process. Examples of products that might fall under such a designation in Iceland could include specific types of lamb, fish, dairy products, or baked goods, where the unique environmental conditions and traditional practices contribute to their distinctive characteristics. The term gæðamati emphasizes the high quality and the link to a specific place of origin.