# C_2023297EN.01001701.xml

| 22.8.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 297/17 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

22.8.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 297/17

---

Publication of an application for approval of an amendment, which is not minor, to a product specification pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs

(2023/C 297/03)

This publication confers the right to oppose the amendment application pursuant to Article 51 of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1) within three months from the date of this publication.

APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE PRODUCT SPECIFICATION OF PROTECTED DESIGNATIONS OF ORIGIN/PROTECTED GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATIONS WHICH IS NOT MINOR

Application for approval of an amendment in accordance with the first subparagraph of Article 53(2), of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012

‘Jabłka grójeckie’

EU No: PGI-PL-0730-AM01 – 6.7.2021

PDO ( ) PGI (X)

1.   Applicant group and legitimate interest

Name of the group: Stowarzyszenie Sady Grójeckie [Association of Grójec Orchards]

Address for correspondence: ul. Niemojewska 19, 05-660 Warka, Polska/Poland

Tel. +48 698762020

Email: stowarzyszenie@jablkagrojeckie.pl

Stowarzyszenie Sady Grójeckie is the group that applied for the registration of the name ‘jabłka grójeckie’ as a PGI. The association is currently made up of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ producers.

2.   Member State or Third Country

Poland

3.   Heading in the product specification affected by the amendment(s)

| ☐ | Name of product |
| --- | --- |

☐

Name of product

| ☒ | Description of the product |
| --- | --- |

☒

Description of the product

| ☐ | Geographical area |
| --- | --- |

☐

Geographical area

| ☒ | Proof of origin |
| --- | --- |

☒

Proof of origin

| ☒ | Method of production |
| --- | --- |

☒

Method of production

| ☐ | Link |
| --- | --- |

☐

Link

| ☐ | Labelling |
| --- | --- |

☐

Labelling

| ☒ | Other:






  — | Inspection |
| --- | --- | --- |

☒

Other:

—

Inspection

| — | Storage |
| --- | --- |

—

Storage

| — | Packaging |
| --- | --- |

—

Packaging

4.   Type of amendment(s)

| ☒ | Amendment to product specification of a registered PDO or PGI not to be qualified as minor in accordance with the third subparagraph of Article 53(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012. |
| --- | --- |

☒

Amendment to product specification of a registered PDO or PGI not to be qualified as minor in accordance with the third subparagraph of Article 53(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012.

| ☐ | Amendment to product specification of registered PDO or PGI for which a Single Document (or equivalent) has not been published not to be qualified as minor in accordance with the third subparagraph of Article 53(2) of Regulation (EU) no 1151/2012 |
| --- | --- |

☐

Amendment to product specification of registered PDO or PGI for which a Single Document (or equivalent) has not been published not to be qualified as minor in accordance with the third subparagraph of Article 53(2) of Regulation (EU) no 1151/2012

5.   Amendment(s)

5.1.   
  Description of product

In point 4 of the Specification (Description) and point 3.2 of the Single Document (Description of the product), after the sentences:

‘Apples of the varieties listed below may be sold as “jabłka grójeckie” in the “extra” class and in class I if they meet the minimum requirements for colouring, size and firmness of flesh at the time of sale specified in the table below. “Jabłka grójeckie” also have a level of acidity which is, as a rule, 5 % higher than the average for the variety concerned. However, the value for this parameter is dependent on the atmospheric conditions prevailing during the growing season.’

the following sentences have been added:

‘In addition, “jabłka grójeckie” must meet stricter requirements relating to residues of plant protection products. They may contain residues of no more than five plant protection products from among those authorised. The maximum acceptable level for each of these substances in “jabłka grójeckie” is 50 % of the standard laid down in generally applicable European Union legislation. Residue levels must also comply with the rules on such residues in any country to which “jabłka grójeckie” are exported.’

‘Jabłka grójeckie’ that meet variety, size, firmness and colouring requirements but that show clear signs of frost damage or healed hail injury covering not more than 20 % of the total surface area of the fruit, may be supplied for processing, in bulk packaging units of up to 380 kg. All injuries must be healed. Rot is not permitted. This fruit must be clearly marked ‘Jabłka grójeckie for processing’ and must be stored in separate packaging from ‘jabłka grójeckie’‘extra’ class or class I.”

The addition of provisions on levels of residues of plant protection products arises from concerns about consumer health and environmental protection.

The change allowing the use of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ with traces of frost or hail damage in processing is dictated by the increasing incidence of hail and frosts during the flowering period, as a result of climate change. Where frost damage or healed hail injury occurs, but the requirements regarding varieties, firmness, size and colouring are met, the fruit retains all the qualities characteristic of ‘jabłka grójeckie’. Introducing this change should help to broaden the range of products made from ‘jabłka grójeckie’ and reduce food waste.

5.1.1.   Table of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ varieties

The table of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ varieties, i.e. point 4 of the Specification and point 3.2 of the Single Document, has been amended as follows:

| a) | The symbol (*) was added for the green varieties and the symbol (**) was added for the summer varieties.
  The introduction of the aforementioned symbols facilitates identification of varieties with typical characteristics (e.g. green varieties = no colouring or red blush; summer varieties = rapidly declining firmness of the flesh), but to some extent unique features in the context of the ‘jabłka grójeckie’ specificity referred to in point 5.2 of the Single Document.
  In the ‘colouring’ column, green varieties (*), which do not have a blush, are indicated with ‘N/A’ [not applicable].
  For summer varieties (**), firmness is measured at the time of issue of the goods for dispatch. |
| --- | --- |

a)

The symbol (*) was added for the green varieties and the symbol (**) was added for the summer varieties.

The introduction of the aforementioned symbols facilitates identification of varieties with typical characteristics (e.g. green varieties = no colouring or red blush; summer varieties = rapidly declining firmness of the flesh), but to some extent unique features in the context of the ‘jabłka grójeckie’ specificity referred to in point 5.2 of the Single Document.

In the ‘colouring’ column, green varieties (*), which do not have a blush, are indicated with ‘N/A’ [not applicable].

For summer varieties (**), firmness is measured at the time of issue of the goods for dispatch.

| b) | Jerseymac has been removed from the list of varieties eligible for the production of ‘jabłka grójeckie’.
  The fruit-growing experience has enabled us to note that these apple varieties, due to their characteristics, often did not meet the parameters laid down for ‘jabłka grójeckie’. The delicate fruit of the Jerseymac variety, with a rapidly declining firmness of the flesh, often suffered mechanical skin damage and bruising, which disqualified it in the context of the high quality requirement for ‘jabłka grójeckie’. The harvest date itself was often difficult to specify, as apples of this variety could fall from the tree before the fruit-growers’ expected harvest date. |
| --- | --- |

b)

Jerseymac has been removed from the list of varieties eligible for the production of ‘jabłka grójeckie’.

The fruit-growing experience has enabled us to note that these apple varieties, due to their characteristics, often did not meet the parameters laid down for ‘jabłka grójeckie’. The delicate fruit of the Jerseymac variety, with a rapidly declining firmness of the flesh, often suffered mechanical skin damage and bruising, which disqualified it in the context of the high quality requirement for ‘jabłka grójeckie’. The harvest date itself was often difficult to specify, as apples of this variety could fall from the tree before the fruit-growers’ expected harvest date.

| c) | New varieties have been added. These additions comprise two groups:
  Old varieties: Antonówka Zwykła [Common Antonówka], Antonówka Biała Śmietankowa [Creamy White Antonówka], Ananas Berżenicki [Berżenicki Pineapple], Boiken, Cytrynówka, Kaiser Wilhelm, Kosztela, Makao, Malinówka, Szara Reneta [Reinette grise], Reneta Landsberska [Landsberger Reinette] and Kronselka.
  New varieties recently brought into production:
  Chopin, Crimson Crisp, Muna and Sander.
  In addition, mutants have been added to certain varieties already featured in the list of varieties by the insertion of the phrase ‘and mutants’: Ligol and mutants and Idared and mutants. |
| --- | --- |

c)

New varieties have been added. These additions comprise two groups:

Old varieties: Antonówka Zwykła [Common Antonówka], Antonówka Biała Śmietankowa [Creamy White Antonówka], Ananas Berżenicki [Berżenicki Pineapple], Boiken, Cytrynówka, Kaiser Wilhelm, Kosztela, Makao, Malinówka, Szara Reneta [Reinette grise], Reneta Landsberska [Landsberger Reinette] and Kronselka.

New varieties recently brought into production:

Chopin, Crimson Crisp, Muna and Sander.

In addition, mutants have been added to certain varieties already featured in the list of varieties by the insertion of the phrase ‘and mutants’: Ligol and mutants and Idared and mutants.

| d) | The Red Delicious variety (and mutants) has been made a separate variety. Red Delicious has until now constituted a mutant of Golden Delicious. Since it forms mutants itself, it should be a separate entry in the list of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ varieties.









  Variety | Colouring as % of surface area | Size of ‘extra’ class | Size of class I | Minimum firmness of flesh |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Alwa | 55 | 60 | 55 | 5,5 |
| Ananas Berżenicki [Berżenicki Pineapple] * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Antonówka Biała Śmietankowa [Creamy White Antonówka] (colloquially referred to as Sześćsetgramowa [Six-hundred-grammer] and Półtorafuntowa [Pound-and-a-halfer]) * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5,0 |
| Antonówka Zwykła [Common Antonówka] * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5,0 |
| Belle de Boskoop and mutants * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 6 |
| Boiken * | N/A | 65 | 60 | 6,5 |
| Braeburn | 55 | 70 | 65 | 6 |
| Cortland | 55 | 70 | 65 | 4,5 |
| Celeste ** | 38 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Kaiser Wilhelm | 50 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Chopin * | N/A | 60 | 55 | 5 |
| Crimson crisp | 55 | 70 /85 | 65 | 6,5 |
| Cytrynówka * | N/A | 70 | 60 | 5,5 |
| Delikates ** | 55 | 70 | 65 | 5 |
| Delbarestivale and mutants ** | 38 | 60 | 55 | 5,5 |
| Early Geneva ** | 55 | 60 | 55 | 6 |
| Elise | 80 | 70 | 65 | 6 |
| Elstar | 38 | 60 | 55 | 4,5 |
| Empire | 80 | 60 | 55 | 5 |
| Fuji | 55 | 70 | 65 | 6 |
| Gala and mutants | 38 | 60 | 55 | 5,5 |
| Gloster | 55 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Golden Delicious and mutants * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5 |
| Idared and mutants | 55 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Jerseymac | 55 | 60 | 55 | 5,5 |
| Jonagold and mutants | 38 | 70 | 65 | 5 |
| Jonagored and mutants | 80 | 70 | 65 | 5 |
| Kosztela * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Kronselka (Oliwka Kronselska) * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5,0 |
| Ligol and mutants | 55 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Lobo | 55 | 70 | 65 | 4,5 |
| Makao (Macoun) | 80 | 65 | 60 | 5,5 |
| Malinówka | 80 | 70 | 65 | 5,0 |
| Muna | 90 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Mutsu * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 6 |
| Paula Red ** | 55 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Pinova and mutants | 38 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Piros ** | 38 | 60 | 55 | 5,5 |
| Red Delicious and mutants | 80 | 70 | 65 | 6,0 |
| Reneta Landsberska [Landsberger Reinette] * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5,0 |
| Rubin | 80 | 70 | 65 | 4,5 |
| Sander | 45 | 60 | 55 | 5,5 |
| Shampion and mutants | 55 | 70 | 65 | 4,5 |
| Starking | 80 | 65 | 60 | 6,0 |
| Szara Reneta [Reinette grise] | 38 | 70 | 65 | 6,0 |
| * | green varieties |

d)

The Red Delicious variety (and mutants) has been made a separate variety. Red Delicious has until now constituted a mutant of Golden Delicious. Since it forms mutants itself, it should be a separate entry in the list of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ varieties.

Variety

Colouring as % of surface area

Size of ‘extra’ class

Size of class I

Minimum firmness of flesh

Alwa

55

60

55

5,5

Ananas Berżenicki [Berżenicki Pineapple] *

N/A

70

65

5,5

Antonówka Biała Śmietankowa [Creamy White Antonówka] (colloquially referred to as Sześćsetgramowa [Six-hundred-grammer] and Półtorafuntowa [Pound-and-a-halfer]) *

N/A

70

65

5,0

Antonówka Zwykła [Common Antonówka] *

N/A

70

65

5,0

Belle de Boskoop and mutants *

N/A

70

65

6

Boiken *

N/A

65

60

6,5

Braeburn

55

70

65

6

Cortland

55

70

65

4,5

Celeste **

38

70

65

5,5

Kaiser Wilhelm

50

70

65

5,5

Chopin *

N/A

60

55

5

Crimson crisp

55

70 /85

65

6,5

Cytrynówka *

N/A

70

60

5,5

Delikates **

55

70

65

5

Delbarestivale and mutants **

38

60

55

5,5

Early Geneva **

55

60

55

6

Elise

80

70

65

6

Elstar

38

60

55

4,5

Empire

80

60

55

5

Fuji

55

70

65

6

Gala and mutants

38

60

55

5,5

Gloster

55

70

65

5,5

Golden Delicious and mutants *

N/A

70

65

5

Idared and mutants

55

70

65

5,5

Jerseymac

55

60

55

5,5

Jonagold and mutants

38

70

65

5

Jonagored and mutants

80

70

65

5

Kosztela *

N/A

70

65

5,5

Kronselka (Oliwka Kronselska) *

N/A

70

65

5,0

Ligol and mutants

55

70

65

5,5

Lobo

55

70

65

4,5

Makao (Macoun)

80

65

60

5,5

Malinówka

80

70

65

5,0

Muna

90

70

65

5,5

Mutsu *

N/A

70

65

6

Paula Red **

55

70

65

5,5

Pinova and mutants

38

70

65

5,5

Piros **

38

60

55

5,5

Red Delicious and mutants

80

70

65

6,0

Reneta Landsberska [Landsberger Reinette] *

N/A

70

65

5,0

Rubin

80

70

65

4,5

Sander

45

60

55

5,5

Shampion and mutants

55

70

65

4,5

Starking

80

65

60

6,0

Szara Reneta [Reinette grise]

38

70

65

6,0

*

green varieties

| ** | summer varieties; firmness is measured at the time of issue of the goods for dispatch. |
| --- | --- |

**

summer varieties; firmness is measured at the time of issue of the goods for dispatch.

The addition to the list of varieties of so-called ‘old varieties’ – those cultivated earlier, mostly in domestic orchards – is due to growing interest in these varieties among consumers because they remind them of the flavours of their childhood.

Other varieties have been added in order to expand the range offered and to introduce varieties that are resistant to apple scab, thereby allowing a reduction in the consumption of plant protection products, as well as extending the range to include hard varieties popular in distant markets.

The addition of the phrase ‘and mutants’ to the Idared, Ligol and Red Delicious varieties is due to the fact that mutants of these known varieties with better production and quality parameters are appearing on the market. They are in demand by consumers.

5.2.   
  Proof of origin

5.2.1.   In point 6.5 of the Specification the sentences:

‘The producer or the producer group (where applicable) receive from the Association an identification number which they are required to apply, with the appropriate label, to any packaging authorised for circulation. This number is intended to ensure traceability, i.e. to track the history of the product.’

have been redrafted as follows:

‘The producer receives from the Association an identification number which it is required to use so that “jabłka grójeckie” are identifiable and that the product history can be tracked (traceability). There is no obligation to place this number on the sales label. Sales labelling should be carried out in accordance with the law and under the terms agreed with the contractor.’

This change is due to the need to harmonise labelling requirements and to align them with consumers’ expectations.

5.2.2.   In point 6.6 of the Specification the sentences:

‘The manufacturer must keep a register of: production volume, sales, buyers of produce intended for onward sale, and the acreage and location of orchards. The register must be kept in accordance with the model provided by the Association. The register may be kept in electronic form, in accordance with the method developed by the Association.’

have been replaced by the following sentences:

‘The producer, either alone or through a producer group, must keep a register of: production volume, sales, buyers of produce intended for onward sale, and the acreage and location of orchards. The register must be kept in accordance with the model provided by the Association. The register may be kept in electronic form, in accordance with the method developed by the Association, or using the forms of a binding quality management system, such as GlobalG.A.P..’

This amendment clarifies the obligation on the part of producer groups to keep a register, as entities handling ‘jabłka grójeckie’.

5.2.3.   The following point 7 has been added to point 6 of the Specification:

‘A producer making processed products or other products using “jabłka grójeckie” is responsible for ensuring that the product path can be tracked in such a way as to identify the “jabłka grójeckie” used in their production. A mass balance must be drawn up and forwarded to Stowarzyszenie Sady Grójeckie.’

This change is dictated by the need to ensure that authentic produce is used and to prevent the falsification of processed products containing ‘jabłka grójeckie’.

5.2.4.   The following point 8 has been added to point 6 of the Specification:

‘Stowarzyszenie Sady Grójeckie has the right to carry out an annual internal inspection of 10 % of producers holding a certificate of conformity. Compliance with the product specification and the mass balance are subject to internal checks.’

The inspection of producers certified by the ‘Stowarzyszenie Sady Grójeckie’ is internal in nature. Checks are carried out solely due to the need to ensure that the objectives of cooperation with producers are achieved in an appropriate way.

The checks do not in any way affect or interfere with the activities of external inspection bodies authorised to check and verify compliance with the specification.

These changes are dictated by the need to reinforce the group’s oversight of the product.

5.3.   
  Method of production

5.3.1.   In point 6.2 of the Specification and point 3.4 of the Single Document the sentence:

‘“Jabłka grójeckie” are produced using the Integrated Plant Production (IP) system or the GlobalG.A.P. system.’

has been replaced by the following:

‘“Jabłka grójeckie” are produced using the Integrated Plant Production (IP) system, the GlobalG.A.P. system or by organic farming.’

5.3.2.   In point 7 of the Specification (Method of production) the introductory sentence:

‘“Jabłka grójeckie” are produced in accordance with the Integrated Production (IP) method for apple production or according to the GlobalG.A.P. specification.’

has been replaced by the following:

‘“Jabłka grójeckie” are produced, in existing or newly-established orchards, in accordance with the Integrated Plant Production (IP) method for apple production, or according to the GlobalG.A.P. specification, or according to organic production rules.’

The amendments in points 5.3.1 and 5.3.2. were due to the need to clarify the information on the methods of production of ‘jabłka grójeckie’. Many years of fruit-growing practice has shown us that apples produced under the organic farming system meet the strict quality requirements for ‘jabłka grójeckie’. The proposed amendment therefore seeks to legitimise existing practices in the context of the production of ‘jabłka grójeckie’.

5.3.3.   In point 7 of the Specification (Planting)

the sentences:

‘Spacing is from 3 to 3,5 metres between rows and from 0,5 to 1,2 between trees for dwarf rootstocks, depending on the vigour of the variety, the way it is cultivated and the equipment used. However, the spacing for apple trees planted on semi-dwarf rootstocks is 3,5 to 4,2 metres between rows and 1,2 to 2 metres between trees. For orchards planted before the application for the registration of “jabłka grójeckie”, other spacing distances may also be applied.’

have been replaced by the following sentences:

‘Spacing is from 3 to 3,5 metres between rows and from 0,5 to 1,2 between trees for dwarf rootstocks, depending on the vigour of the variety, the way it is cultivated and the equipment used. However, the spacing for apple trees planted on semi-dwarf rootstocks is 3,5 to 4,2 metres between rows and 1,2 to 2 metres between trees. For orchards planted before the application for the registration of “jabłka grójeckie”, other spacing distances may also be applied. In the case of newly planted orchards of old varieties, the spacing guidelines do not apply.’

This change is connected with the fact that managing old varieties differs from managing modern orchards.

5.3.4.   In point 7 of the Specification (Harvesting) the sentence:

‘The harvest is normally done from 10 September to 31 October, with the exception of early varieties.’

has been deleted because, due to climate change, harvesting takes place in accordance with prevailing atmospheric conditions, which cannot be defined precisely by a calendar date. While our know-how and tree-growing experience allow us to determine when the apples are ready to be harvested, it is increasingly difficult to determine in advance when the harvest will take place. This is due to prevailing atmospheric conditions. This is not only a question of persistent rain or night frosts that occur during the harvest period, but of weather conditions which prevailed several months earlier. The date on which the fruit are harvested depends on a number of climate-related factors throughout the growing season. Increasingly frequent weather anomalies, i.e. occurring outside typical periods such as: high temperatures during the winter, frosts in spring, droughts and heatwaves in summer, rainfall and flooding, can prolong or significantly shorten the apple ripening period and thus change the harvesting schedule, which just a few years ago was more similar from year to year.

5.3.5.   In point 7 of the Specification an additional step, ‘Sorting’ has been added, which reads as follows:

Sorting

‘“Jabłka grójeckie” are dessert apples sorted into premium quality grades (“extra” class and class I) and “jabłka grójeckie for processing”, sorted and displayed in accordance with binding rules in this area. Sorting may be done directly at the premises of the producer (or group of producers), or in a sorting plant located in the geographic area defined in point 5. Sorting is done into the following categories: “jabłka grójeckie”, “jabłka grójeckie for processing” and other apples. Once sorted, “jabłka grójeckie” and “jabłka grójeckie for processing” must be clearly identified and separated from other apples.’

This change is due to the need to clarify the rules on sorting and packaging. There is a misconception that a producer holding a ‘jabłka grójeckie’ certificate can sell its entire crop as ‘jabłka grójeckie’. In fact, only apples sorted and graded as highest-quality ‘extra’ class or class I (complying with the parameters set out in the table of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ varieties), or ‘jabłka grójeckie for processing’ can be sold as ‘jabłka grójeckie’. The entire harvest is stored together, and only after the opening of the storage chambers are apples sorted into ‘jabłka grójeckie’, ‘jabłka grójeckie for processing’ and ordinary apples. Fruit originating in the ‘jabłka grójeckie’ production area but not meeting the requirements of ‘extra’ class or class I may not be called ‘jabłka grójeckie’.

5.4.   
  Other

5.4.1.   Inspection

In point 9 of the Specification (Inspection)

the sentence:

‘Provide the name and address of the body or organisational unit verifying compliance with the product specification and define the scope of such verification.

| 1) | TÜV Rheinland Polska Sp. z o.o. , 17 Stycznia 56, 02-146 Warsaw; |
| --- | --- |

1)

TÜV Rheinland Polska Sp. z o.o. , 17 Stycznia 56, 02-146 Warsaw;

| 2) | PNG sp. zoo, Zajączków, 26-065 Piekoszów; |
| --- | --- |

2)

PNG sp. zoo, Zajączków, 26-065 Piekoszów;

| 3) | Wojewódzki Inspektor Jakości Handlowej Artykułów Rolno-Spożywczych w Warszawie [Provincial Inspector of Agricultural and Food Quality in Warsaw], ul. Marszałkowska 115, 00-102 Warsaw.’ |
| --- | --- |

3)

Wojewódzki Inspektor Jakości Handlowej Artykułów Rolno-Spożywczych w Warszawie [Provincial Inspector of Agricultural and Food Quality in Warsaw], ul. Marszałkowska 115, 00-102 Warsaw.’

has been changed to:

‘Provide the name and address of the body or organisational unit verifying compliance with the product specification and define the scope of such verification.

Główny Inspektor Jakości Handlowej Artykułów Rolno-Spożywczych [Chief Inspector of Agricultural and Food Quality]

Aleje Jerozolimskie 98, 00-807 Warsaw.’

This change is due to the fact that this is the highest-ranking body, and it supervises all inspection bodies.

5.4.2.   In point 7 of the Specification (Storage) the sentence:

‘It is essential that the firmness at the end of the storage period be no less than 4,5 kg/cm2.’

has been replaced by the following:

‘It is essential that the firmness at the end of the storage period be no less than that set out in the table for the variety in question.’

This amendment expands the guidelines for firmness for each variety by reference to the value indicated in the table under the heading ‘Description of product’.

After the sentence:

‘Where a producer also grows other apples not covered by the protected geographical indication, these must be stored in such a way as to prevent the fruit from being mixed.’

the following sentence has been added:

‘Only apples meeting all the requirements set out in this application (i.e. only sorted apples) may be sold under the name “jabłka grójeckie”.’

This amendment is based on the need to clarify this provision. There is a misconception that a producer holding a ‘jabłka grójeckie’ certificate can sell its entire crop as ‘jabłka grójeckie’. In fact, only apples sorted and graded as highest-quality ‘extra’ class or class I (complying with the parameters set out in the table of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ varieties), or ‘jabłka grójeckie for processing’ can be sold as ‘jabłka grójeckie’.

5.4.3.   In point 7 of the Specification the following sentence was added to (Packaging):

‘In the case of “jabłka grójeckie” intended for processing, bulk packaging units of up to 380 kg are permitted.’

This change is due to the need to add a new form of packaging for fruit destined for processing.

In connection with the aforementioned amendments, point 3.5 of the Single Document has been supplemented with a description of the production methods Storage and Packaging.

5.4.4.   Point 3.5 of the Single Document is replaced by the following:

Specific rules concerning slicing, grating, packaging, etc. of the product the registered name refers to

Storage

‘Jabłka grójeckie’ should be stored in the area defined in point 4 until they are packaged.

Optimal storage conditions for ‘Jabłka grójeckie’ are as follows: temperature: 1-3 °C – long-term storage for several months, 4-10 °C – post-harvest storage, short-term storage up to a dozen days. The permissible storage period depends on the variety. It is essential that the firmness at the end of the storage period be no less than that set out in the table for the variety in question.

Where a producer also grows other apples not covered by the protected geographical indication, these must be stored in such a way as to prevent the fruit from being mixed. Only apples meeting all the requirements set out in this application (i.e. only sorted apples) may be sold under the name ‘jabłka grójeckie’.

Packaging

Packaging must be carried out in the geographical area defined in point 4. Various types of single-unit packaging and bulk packaging units of up to 20 kg are used. The fruit are packed either by hand or by special machines to minimise mechanical damage. The restriction on packaging is due to the need to preserve the high quality of the product (and avoid the risk of mechanical damage) and to prevent ‘jabłka grójeckie’ (PGI) from being mixed up with other apples. All of this serves to maintain the product’s reputation.

In the case of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ intended for processing, bulk packaging units of up to 380 kg are permitted.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

‘Jabłka grójeckie’

EU No: PGI-PL-0730-AM01 – 6.7.2021

PDO ( ) PGI (X)

1.   Name(s)

‘Jabłka grójeckie’

2.   Member State or Third Country

Poland

3.   Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

3.1.   
  Type of product

Class 1.6. Fruit, vegetables and cereals, fresh or processed

3.2.   
  Description of the product to which the name in (1) applies

‘Apples of the varieties listed below may be sold as ‘jabłka grójeckie’ in the ‘extra’ class and in class I if they meet the minimum requirements for colouring, size and firmness of flesh at the time of sale specified in the following table. ‘Jabłka grójeckie’ also have a level of acidity which is, as a rule, 5 % higher than the average for the variety concerned.

However, the value for this parameter is dependent on the atmospheric conditions prevailing during the growing season.

In addition, ‘jabłka grójeckie’ must meet stricter requirements relating to residues of plant protection products. They may contain residues of no more than five plant protection products from among those authorised. The maximum acceptable level for each of these substances in ‘jabłka grójeckie’ is 50 % of the standard laid down in generally applicable European Union legislation. Residue levels must also comply with the rules on such residues in any country to which ‘jabłka grójeckie’ are exported.

‘Jabłka grójeckie’ that meet variety, size, firmness and colouring requirements but that show clear signs of frost damage or healed hail injury covering not more than 20 % of the total surface area of the fruit, may be supplied for processing, in bulk packaging units of up to 380 kg. All injuries must be healed. Rot is not permitted. This fruit must be clearly marked ‘Jabłka grójeckie for processing’ and must be stored in separate packaging from ‘jabłka grójeckie’ in ‘extra’ class or class I.

Table of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ varieties

| Variety | Colouring as % of surface area | Size of ‘extra’ class | Size of class I | Minimum firmness of flesh |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Alwa | 55 | 60 | 55 | 5,5 |
| Ananas Berżenicki [Berżenicki Pineapple] * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Antonówkaiała Śmietankowa [Creamy Antonówkaiała] (colloquially referred to as Sześćsetgramowa [Six-hundred-grammer] and Półtorafuntowa [Pound-and-a-halfer]) * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5,0 |
| Antonówka Zwykła [Common Antonówka] * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5,0 |
| Belle de Boskoop and mutants * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 6 |
| Boiken * | N/A | 65 | 60 | 6,5 |
| Braeburn | 55 | 70 | 65 | 6 |
| Cortland | 55 | 70 | 65 | 4,5 |
| Celeste ** | 38 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Kaiser Wilhelm | 50 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Chopin * | N/A | 60 | 55 | 5 |
| Crimson Crisp | 55 | 70 /85 | 65 | 6,5 |
| Cytrynówka * | N/A | 70 | 60 | 5,5 |
| Delikates ** | 55 | 70 | 65 | 5 |
| Delbarestivale and mutants ** | 38 | 60 | 55 | 5,5 |
| Early Geneva ** | 55 | 60 | 55 | 6 |
| Elise | 80 | 70 | 65 | 6 |
| Elstar | 38 | 60 | 55 | 4,5 |
| Empire | 80 | 60 | 55 | 5 |
| Fuji | 55 | 70 | 65 | 6 |
| Gala and mutants | 38 | 60 | 55 | 5,5 |
| Gloster | 55 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Golden Delicious and mutants * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5 |
| Idared and mutants | 55 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Jonagold and mutants | 38 | 70 | 65 | 5 |
| Jonagored and mutants | 80 | 70 | 65 | 5 |
| Kosztela * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Kronselka (Oliwka Kronselska) * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5,0 |
| Ligol and mutants | 55 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Lobo | 55 | 70 | 65 | 4,5 |
| Makao (Macoun) | 80 | 65 | 60 | 5,5 |
| Malinówka | 80 | 70 | 65 | 5,0 |
| Muna | 90 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Mutsu * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 6 |
| Paula Red ** | 55 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Pinova and mutants | 38 | 70 | 65 | 5,5 |
| Piros ** | 38 | 60 | 55 | 5,5 |
| Red Delicious and mutants | 80 | 70 | 65 | 6,0 |
| Reneta Landsberska [Landsberger Reinette] * | N/A | 70 | 65 | 5,0 |
| Rubin | 80 | 70 | 65 | 4,5 |
| Sander | 45 | 60 | 55 | 5,5 |
| Shampion and mutants | 55 | 70 | 65 | 4,5 |
| Starking | 80 | 65 | 60 | 6,0 |
| Szara Reneta [Reinette grise] | 38 | 70 | 65 | 6,0 |
| * | green varieties |

Variety

Colouring as % of surface area

Size of ‘extra’ class

Size of class I

Minimum firmness of flesh

Alwa

55

60

55

5,5

Ananas Berżenicki [Berżenicki Pineapple] *

N/A

70

65

5,5

Antonówkaiała Śmietankowa [Creamy Antonówkaiała] (colloquially referred to as Sześćsetgramowa [Six-hundred-grammer] and Półtorafuntowa [Pound-and-a-halfer]) *

N/A

70

65

5,0

Antonówka Zwykła [Common Antonówka] *

N/A

70

65

5,0

Belle de Boskoop and mutants *

N/A

70

65

6

Boiken *

N/A

65

60

6,5

Braeburn

55

70

65

6

Cortland

55

70

65

4,5

Celeste **

38

70

65

5,5

Kaiser Wilhelm

50

70

65

5,5

Chopin *

N/A

60

55

5

Crimson Crisp

55

70 /85

65

6,5

Cytrynówka *

N/A

70

60

5,5

Delikates **

55

70

65

5

Delbarestivale and mutants **

38

60

55

5,5

Early Geneva **

55

60

55

6

Elise

80

70

65

6

Elstar

38

60

55

4,5

Empire

80

60

55

5

Fuji

55

70

65

6

Gala and mutants

38

60

55

5,5

Gloster

55

70

65

5,5

Golden Delicious and mutants *

N/A

70

65

5

Idared and mutants

55

70

65

5,5

Jonagold and mutants

38

70

65

5

Jonagored and mutants

80

70

65

5

Kosztela *

N/A

70

65

5,5

Kronselka (Oliwka Kronselska) *

N/A

70

65

5,0

Ligol and mutants

55

70

65

5,5

Lobo

55

70

65

4,5

Makao (Macoun)

80

65

60

5,5

Malinówka

80

70

65

5,0

Muna

90

70

65

5,5

Mutsu *

N/A

70

65

6

Paula Red **

55

70

65

5,5

Pinova and mutants

38

70

65

5,5

Piros **

38

60

55

5,5

Red Delicious and mutants

80

70

65

6,0

Reneta Landsberska [Landsberger Reinette] *

N/A

70

65

5,0

Rubin

80

70

65

4,5

Sander

45

60

55

5,5

Shampion and mutants

55

70

65

4,5

Starking

80

65

60

6,0

Szara Reneta [Reinette grise]

38

70

65

6,0

*

green varieties

| ** | summer varieties; firmness is measured at the time of issue of the goods for dispatch. |
| --- | --- |

**

summer varieties; firmness is measured at the time of issue of the goods for dispatch.

3.3.   
  Feed (for products of animal origin only) and raw materials (for processed products only)

—

3.4.   
  Specific steps in production that must take place in the identified geographical area

The following steps in the production of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ must take place in the area defined in point 4:

| — | site preparation |
| --- | --- |

—

site preparation

| — | planting |
| --- | --- |

—

planting

| — | cutting and shaping |
| --- | --- |

—

cutting and shaping

| — | fertilisation |
| --- | --- |

—

fertilisation

| — | irrigation |
| --- | --- |

—

irrigation

| — | plant protection |
| --- | --- |

—

plant protection

| — | fruit-quality improvement treatments |
| --- | --- |

—

fruit-quality improvement treatments

| — | harvesting |
| --- | --- |

—

harvesting

| — | sorting |
| --- | --- |

—

sorting

‘Jabłka grójeckie’ are produced using the Integrated Plant Production (IP) system, the GlobalG.A.P. system or by organic farming.

3.5.   
  Specific rules concerning slicing, grating, packaging, etc. of the product the registered name refers to

Storage

‘Jabłka grójeckie’ should be stored in the area defined in point 4 until they are packaged.

Optimal storage conditions for ‘Jabłka grójeckie’ are as follows: temperature: 1-3 °C – long-term storage for several months, 4-10 °C – post-harvest storage, short-term storage up to a dozen days. The permissible storage period depends on the variety. It is essential that the firmness at the end of the storage period be no less than that set out in the table for the variety in question.

Where a producer also grows other apples not covered by the protected geographical indication, these must be stored in such a way as to prevent the fruit from being mixed. Only apples meeting all the requirements set out in this application (i.e. only sorted apples) may be sold under the name ‘jabłka grójeckie’.

Packaging

Packaging must be carried out in the geographical area defined in point 4. Various types of single-unit packaging and bulk packaging units of up to 20 kg are used. The fruit are packed either by hand or by special machines to minimise mechanical damage. The restriction on packaging is due to the need to preserve the high quality of the product (and avoid the risk of mechanical damage) and to prevent ‘jabłka grójeckie’ (PGI) from being mixed up with other apples. All of this serves to maintain the product’s reputation.

In the case of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ intended for processing, bulk packaging units of up to 380 kg are permitted.

3.6.   
  Specific rules concerning labelling of the product the registered name refers to

—

4.   Concise definition of the geographical area

In Mazowieckie province:

| — | the whole of Grójec District (municipalities: Belsk Duży, Błędów, Chynów, Goszczyn, Grójec, Jasieniec, Mogielnica, Nowe Miasto n. Pilicą, Pniewy and Warka); |
| --- | --- |

—

the whole of Grójec District (municipalities: Belsk Duży, Błędów, Chynów, Goszczyn, Grójec, Jasieniec, Mogielnica, Nowe Miasto n. Pilicą, Pniewy and Warka);

| — | the municipality of Mszczonów in Żyrardow District; |
| --- | --- |

—

the municipality of Mszczonów in Żyrardow District;

| — | the municipalities of Tarczyn, Prażmów and Góra Kalwaria in Piaseczno District; |
| --- | --- |

—

the municipalities of Tarczyn, Prażmów and Góra Kalwaria in Piaseczno District;

| — | the municipality of Sobienie Jeziory in Otwock District; |
| --- | --- |

—

the municipality of Sobienie Jeziory in Otwock District;

| — | the municipality of Wilga in Garwolin District; |
| --- | --- |

—

the municipality of Wilga in Garwolin District;

| — | the municipalities of Grabów n. Pilicą and Magnuszew in Kozienice District; |
| --- | --- |

—

the municipalities of Grabów n. Pilicą and Magnuszew in Kozienice District;

| — | the municipalities of Stromiec, Białobrzegi and Promna in Białobrzegi District; |
| --- | --- |

—

the municipalities of Stromiec, Białobrzegi and Promna in Białobrzegi District;

In Łódzkie Province:

| — | the municipalities of Biała Rawska, Sadkowice, Regnów and Cielądz in Rawa Mazowiecka District; |
| --- | --- |

—

the municipalities of Biała Rawska, Sadkowice, Regnów and Cielądz in Rawa Mazowiecka District;

| — | the municipality of Kowiesy in Skierniewice District. |
| --- | --- |

—

the municipality of Kowiesy in Skierniewice District.

5.   Link with the geographical area

5.1.   
  Specificity of the geographical area

5.1.1.   Natural factors

The ‘jabłka grójeckie’ production area is located in central Poland, on the Warsaw Plain and Rawa Plateau and in the Białobrzegi Valley and the Central Vistula Valley. These are geographical regions forming part of the Central Mazovian Lowlands and the Southern Mazovian Lowlands.

Podsolic or pseudopodsolic soils formed on sand, clay and marginal deposits in the average and low valuation classes which are ideal for the cultivation of apple orchards predominate in these areas. The area receives 600 mm of precipitation per annum. The growing season is about 200 days, which makes it possible to grow most varieties of apple tree. The region’s relatively mild, near-continental climate protects against significant planting losses even in frost-sensitive varieties.

This region has a characteristic microclimate that is distinguished by low night-time temperatures (as low as 0 °C) during the pre-harvest period (September and early October).

The identified ‘jabłka grójeckie’ production area is very homogeneous in character. From the centre of the region, i.e. the town of Grójec, to its boundaries, apple trees are grown in every locality. Crop concentration, reaching 70 % in the area around Grójec, decreases as the distance from the town increases; just beyond the boundaries of the identified growing area the pattern of apple tree cultivation becomes more scattered. That is why the region is called the ‘biggest orchard in Europe’.

In short, the soils and specific microclimate produce the unique natural conditions in which ‘jabłka grójeckie’ acquire their colour more quickly, giving them an above-average blush and a high acidity that is prized by processors throughout Europe.

5.1.2.   Historical and human factors

The origins of the ‘biggest orchard in Europe’, as the area around Grójec is called, date back to the time of Queen Bona, who was known for her interest in horticulture and fruit farming. In 1545, she received large tracts of land in Grójec District, for which she later made provision by granting various privileges to owners of market gardens. The legal status of fruit farming was subsequently strengthened by the royal decree issued by Queen Bona’s son in 1578. This provided the initial impetus for the development of orchards, particularly apple orchards. Historical works contain numerous references to the development of manorial and peasant orchards in the Grójec area.

A not insignificant role in the history of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ was also played by members of the clergy (Roch Wójcicki of Belsk, Niedźwiedzki of Łęczeszyce, Stefan Roguski of Goszczyn and Edward Kawiński of Konary), who were the most important figures in fruit farming in the region in the 19th century. The beginning of the 20th century saw the establishment of commercial orchards, symbolised by the work of Jan Cieślak of Podgórzyce. Cieślak did much to refine apple growing and storage skills (in 1918 he built the first fruit warehouse in Poland).

The early 20th century also saw the emergence of the first consultants, one of the region’s most famous being Witalis Urbanowicz, who made a name for himself in 1909 by drawing up his ‘ten commandments of horticulture’.

A period of very rapid growth in fruit-growing in the Grójec area, with which the name of Prof. Szczepan Pieniążek is synonymous, began with the end of the Second World War. The Research Institute of Pomology and Floriculture (Instytut Sadownictwa i Kwiaciarstwa), which passed on the latest knowledge and experience to local fruit farmers, was founded at his instigation. On his recommendation, a student of his, Eligiusz Gajewski, founded the Experimental Station of the Institute of Pomology and Floriculture (Zakład Doświadczalny Instytutu Sadownictwa i Kwiaciarstwa) at Nowa Wieś. This developed into a model farm which passed on practical know-how to the fruit farmers of Grójec.

As time went by, the growing of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ became more widespread, but in 1958 the local farmers’ harvest failed, and this prompted the deputy Chairman of the District Presidium of the National Council in Grójec, Wacław Przytocki, to organise an apple blossom festival (Dni Kwitnących Jabłoni) with the aim of promoting the apples and the region as a whole. Initially, the apple blossom festival was celebrated in a different place each year, under different names: ‘Dni Kwitnących Jabłoni’, ‘Dni Kwitnącej Jabłoni’, ‘Grójeckie Dni Kwitnącej Jabłoni’, ‘Grójeckie Dni Kwitnących Jabłoni’, ‘Kwitnące Jabłonie’ and ‘Święto Kwitnących Jabłoni’, which is the name that has been used for over ten years now.

5.2.   
  Specificity of the product

‘Jabłka grójeckie’ have a blush which is, as a rule, 5 % greater than the average. The apples’ beautiful red blush not only gives them a pleasing appearance but also reflects the higher content of pigments, mainly anthocyanins and caretonoids, in their skin tissue. ‘Jabłka grójeckie’ also have a level of acidity which is, as a rule, 5 % higher than the average for the variety concerned. The value for this parameter is, however, dependent on the atmospheric conditions prevailing during the growing season.

5.3.   
  Causal link between the geographical area and the quality or characteristics of the product

The link between ‘jabłka grójeckie’ and the geographical area defined in point 4 stems from the specific qualities described in point 5.2, which have been attained as a result of the natural factors described in point 5.1.1 and the reputation described below.

The natural conditions occurring in the ‘jabłka grójeckie’ production area, in particular its soils and specific microclimate, mean that ‘jabłka grójeckie’ acquire their colour more quickly and have a blush of above-average intensity and a high acidity that is prized by processors throughout Europe. Low night-time temperatures impact favourably on the physiological processes which take place in the apples just before harvesting. This is because oxidisation processes during the night-time resting period are less intensive and, as a result, the sugar-acid ratio improves, making a significant contribution to the exquisite taste of ‘jabłka grójeckie’.

The unique characteristics of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ are closely bound up with the area where the apples are grown, as a result of its particular microclimate. Moreover, the pre-harvest period in the Grójec area is characterised by major falls in temperature (to as low as 0 °C in September and early October). In short, the soils and specific microclimate produce the unique natural conditions in which ‘jabłka grójeckie’ acquire their colour more quickly, giving them an above-average blush and a high acidity that is prized by processors throughout Europe.

The favourable conditions for growing apple trees in the Grójec area have resulted in an exceptional reputation that has been going from strength to strength for almost 500 years. For most people who live in Mazowieckie Province and neighbouring provinces, Grójec is synonymous with apple-growing. References to fruit-growing are found throughout the area: in the coat of arms of Grójec District and a number of municipalities (Chynów, Belsk Duży, Błędów, Jasieniec, Kowiesy and Sadkowice), which feature apples; in place-names such as Sadków and Sadkowice (‘sad’ being the Polish word for orchard); in a bas-relief in the House of Horticulture in Grójec that depicts apple-picking; in the hugely popular annual apple-blossom festival and in the National Orchard Conference, which takes place every year in Grójec; and in names given to parts of towns, such as the Zielony Sad (‘Green Orchard’) housing estate. Many centuries of tradition have enabled the local fruit-growers to master, almost to perfection, the skill of caring for apple trees. Local industry is also geared primarily to servicing the needs of fruit-growing: fruit-processing plants, trading companies, producer groups, suppliers of orchard requisites, manufacturers of machinery, etc. The Grójec area is now home to intensive dwarf orchards, accounting for almost 40 % of national apple production; in some municipalities crop intensity is as high as 70 %.

The product’s excellent reputation, which is due to the area’s climatic conditions and its long tradition of apple-growing, was confirmed in a nationwide consumer survey conducted in September 2008. The results of the survey demonstrated how strongly the Grójec area is associated with fruit-growing and, in particular, with the production of apples. 27,7 % of respondents indicated a connection between the Grójec area and fruit-growing. 19 % of Poles associate the Grójec area with apple-growing. The percentage of respondents from provinces adjoining Mazowieckie Province who associate Grójec with apples is even higher: 32 % in Łódzkie Province and 36 % in Świętokrzyskie Province.

The reputation of ‘jabłka grójeckie’ is also borne out by articles relating to them in the press. Some examples are:

‘Co czwarte jabłko z Grójca’ (1991), ‘Z Grójca do Szwecji’ (1992), ‘Jabłko ekologiczne’ (1993), ‘Eurojabłka z Grójeckiego’ (1995), ‘Sady po klęsce’ (2000), ‘Jabłkowe centrum Europy?’ (2001), and ‘Grójeckie jabłka najlepsze’ (2007).

Reference to publication of the specification

https://www.gov.pl/web/rolnictwo/produkty-zarejestrowane-jako-chronione-nazwy-pochodzenia-chronione-oznaczenia-geograficzne-oraz-gwarantowane-tradycyjne-specjalnosci

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(1)  OJ L 343, 14.12.2012, p. 1.

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