Parmigiano Reggiano: Record of 3.2 Billion Euros in Consumption in 2024

During the annual press conference at Palazzo Giureconsulti in Milan, the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium reported its 2024 performance results. 

Despite a challenging geopolitical environment, uncertainty in international markets and concerns over increasing trade restrictions, overall, the turnover at consumption reached a historic high of 3.2 billion Euros compared to 3.05 billion in 2023, with an increase of 4.9%. Total sales volumes grew by 9.2% supported by a strong performance in the domestic market (+5.2%) and even more so in exports (+13.7%).

Producer prices also increased. In 2024, the average price for 12-month matured Parmigiano Reggiano rose to €11.0/kg, up 9% from €10.13/kg in 2023. For 24-month matured cheese, the price climbed to €12.5/kg with a 5% increase over the previous year's €11.90/kg.

For the Consortium one key takeaway from 2024 is clear: the future of Parmigiano Reggiano lies in international markets. Exports now account for 48.7% (72,440 tons), almost half of total sales, with a +13.7% growth. 

The five main international markets showed strong performances: USA (+13.4%), France (+9.1%), Germany (+13.3%), UK (+17.8%) and Canada (+24.5%). Growth was also recorded in Japan (+6.1%), the leading Asian market, and Australia (+28.2%). With 28.4 million Euros invested in marketing and communication, Parmigiano Reggiano confirmed the process started years ago to become a true global iconic brand, ready to meet the challenges posed by extremely large markets, where the large number of imitation products creates great confusion for customers. The Consortium is working to enhance the PDO distinctiveness, providing consumers with more information on its characteristics: maturation, origin, production process and taste, all elements that give the opportunity to stand out from competitors.

Overall, production remained stable compared to 2023: 4.079 million wheels vs 4.014 million in 2023 (+1.62%). As for the provinces in the area of production, Parma was the largest producer (1.362.226 wheels vs 1.350.415, +0.87%), followed by Reggio Emilia (1.217.128 wheels vs 1.217.380, -0.02%), Modena (877.874 wheels vs 860.971, +1.96), Mantua (507.631 wheels vs 476.361, +6.56) and Bologna (114.389 wheels vs 109.173, +4.77%).

“2024 was a challenging year for Parmigiano Reggiano, yet it ended with record results: turnover at consumption reached an all-time high of €3.2 billion, total sales volume rose by 9.2%, domestic sales increased by 5.2%, and most notably, exports grew by 13.7%,” Nicola Bertinelli, President of the Consortium, told That's Food and Drink.  She went on to tell us: “Looking ahead, we must increasingly invest in international market growth.

"With exports now nearing half of total sales at 48.7%, creating space in foreign markets is a necessity.  The United States,  our top international market, plays a crucial role in this context. The news of increased tariffs on Parmigiano Reggiano is disappointing, but as a premium product, price increases do not automatically reduce demand.  

"We aim to pursue diplomatic solutions to explain why such tariffs are unreasonable for a product that does not directly compete with American parmesan cheese.  We need to engage in meaningful dialogue —not on a bilateral level, but through the European Union— to avoid counterproductive trade wars.”

We are experiencing a time of great change, driven by ongoing conflicts, trade restrictions, and a shift in consumer values. Today's consumers seek products that feature authenticity and heritage—values embodied by Parmigiano Reggiano. Our goal is to make Parmigiano Reggiano not just a cheese, but a lifestyle, a true icon of Italian craftsmanship. The Consortium is ready to meet the challenges ahead.”

From Farm to Table: Exploring the Farm-to-Fork Movement and its Impact on Food Quality

In recent years, there has been a growing interest and demand for fresh, locally sourced produce. 

This has given rise to the Farm-to-Fork movement, a revolutionary approach to food production and distribution that emphasises the direct connection between farmers and consumers. 

As we delve into this movement, we'll explore the journey of food from the farm to the table and examine the profound impact it has on food quality.

The Essence of Farm-to-Fork:

The Farm-to-Fork movement is a departure from traditional, industrialised food production systems. 

It emphasises shortening the supply chain and fostering a direct relationship between farmers, producers, and consumers. This movement champions transparency, sustainability, and the preservation of the nutritional value of food as it travels from the field to our plates.

Freshness Matters:

One of the key pillars of the Farm-to-Fork movement is the emphasis on freshness. Locally sourced produce is often harvested at its peak ripeness, ensuring it retains maximum flavor and nutritional content. The reduced transit time from farm to table minimises the need for preservatives and artificial ripening agents, contributing to a healthier and more flavourful dining experience.

Nutrient Retention:

The moment a fruit or vegetable is harvested, its nutrient content begins to decline. With the Farm-to-Fork model, consumers have access to produce that has spent less time in storage and transportation, resulting in higher nutrient retention. This not only enhances the health benefits of the food we consume but also offers a more satisfying culinary experience, too.

Supporting Local Economies:

By choosing locally sourced products, consumers actively support their own local economies and farming communities. This not only helps to sustain small-scale farmers but also fosters a sense of community and connection. Additionally, the reduced carbon footprint associated with shorter transportation distances aligns with the global push for sustainable practices.

Environmental Impact:

Traditional agricultural practices often involve large-scale monoculture and extensive use of chemical inputs. In contrast, the Farm-to-Fork movement encourages sustainable farming practices, including organic methods and the re-introduction of crop rotation. This not only benefits the environment but also reduces the risk of harmful residues in the food we eat.

Challenges and Opportunities:

While the Farm-to-Fork movement has gained considerable momentum, it faces challenges such as scalability, distribution logistics, and consumer education. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and the development of a more resilient and sustainable food system.

The Farm-to-Fork movement is more than just a trend; it's a paradigm shift in the way we approach food production and consumption. 

By choosing locally sourced and sustainably grown products, consumers contribute to a healthier, more flavorful, and environmentally friendly food system. As we continue to embrace this movement, we not only nourish our bodies but also cultivate a stronger connection to the land and the communities that sustain us. 

From farm to table, the journey of our food is a testament to the transformative power of conscious consumer choices in shaping a better, more sustainable future.

https://www.soilassociation.org

https://www.royalcountrysidefund.org.uk

https://www.nffn.org.uk