# Official Journal C 205/2014

| | ISSN 1977-091X |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 205 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 572 July 2014 |

ISSN 1977-091X

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 205

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 572 July 2014

---

| Notice No | Contents | page |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | II   Information |
| | INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2014/C 205/01 | Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.7262 — Ageas/Ocidental Seguros/Médis) (
  1
  ) | 1 |
| 2014/C 205/02 | Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.7244 — China Huaxin Post and Telecommunication Economy Development Center/Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise Business) (
  1
  ) | 2 |

Notice No

Contents

page

II   Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2014/C 205/01

Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.7262 — Ageas/Ocidental Seguros/Médis) (
  1
  )

1

1

2014/C 205/02

Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.7244 — China Huaxin Post and Telecommunication Economy Development Center/Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise Business) (
  1
  )

1

2

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| | IV   Notices |
| --- | --- |
| | NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2014/C 205/03 | Interest rate applied by the European Central Bank to its main refinancing operations: 0,15 % on 1 July 2014 — Euro exchange rates | 3 |
| 2014/C 205/04 | Commission Implementing Decision of 30 June 2014 on financing the 2014 work programme on training in the field of food and feed safety, animal health, animal welfare and plant health in the framework of the Better Training for Safer Food programme | 4 |
| | Court of Auditors |
| 2014/C 205/05 | Special Report No 9/2014 — Is the EU investment and promotion support to the wine sector well managed and are its results on the competitiveness of EU wines demonstrated? | 9 |
| | NOTICES FROM MEMBER STATES |
| 2014/C 205/06 | Communication from the French Government concerning Directive 94/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the conditions for granting and using authorisations for the prospection, exploration and production of hydrocarbons (Notice regarding applications for exclusive licences to prospect for liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons, designated the Boissy Licences)
   (
  1
  ) | 10 |

IV   Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2014/C 205/03

Interest rate applied by the European Central Bank to its main refinancing operations: 0,15 % on 1 July 2014 — Euro exchange rates

3

2014/C 205/04

Commission Implementing Decision of 30 June 2014 on financing the 2014 work programme on training in the field of food and feed safety, animal health, animal welfare and plant health in the framework of the Better Training for Safer Food programme

4

Court of Auditors

2014/C 205/05

Special Report No 9/2014 — Is the EU investment and promotion support to the wine sector well managed and are its results on the competitiveness of EU wines demonstrated?

9

NOTICES FROM MEMBER STATES

2014/C 205/06

Communication from the French Government concerning Directive 94/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the conditions for granting and using authorisations for the prospection, exploration and production of hydrocarbons (Notice regarding applications for exclusive licences to prospect for liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons, designated the Boissy Licences)
   (
  1
  )

(Notice regarding applications for exclusive licences to prospect for liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons, designated the Boissy Licences)

1

10

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| | V   Announcements |
| --- | --- |
| | PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY |
| | European Commission |
| 2014/C 205/07 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.7169 — Weichai Power/Kion Group) — Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 12 |
| 2014/C 205/08 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.7215 — AMEC/Foster Wheeler) — Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 13 |
| 2014/C 205/09 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.7290 — Apple/Beats) (
  1
  ) | 14 |
| | OTHER ACTS |
| | European Commission |
| 2014/C 205/10 | Publication of an amendment application 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 | 15 |
| 2014/C 205/11 | Publication of an application 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 | 22 |

V   Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

2014/C 205/07

Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.7169 — Weichai Power/Kion Group) — Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

12

2014/C 205/08

Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.7215 — AMEC/Foster Wheeler) — Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

13

2014/C 205/09

Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.7290 — Apple/Beats) (
  1
  )

1

14

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

2014/C 205/10

Publication of an amendment application 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

15

2014/C 205/11

Publication of an application 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

22

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| | |
| --- | --- |
| | (1)   Text with EEA relevance |

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(1)   Text with EEA relevance

1

| EN | |
| --- | --- |

EN

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II Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

| 2.7.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 205/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

2.7.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 205/1

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Non-opposition to a notified concentration

(Case M.7262 — Ageas/Ocidental Seguros/Médis)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2014/C 205/01)

On 25 June 2014, the Commission decided not to oppose the above notified concentration and to declare it compatible with the internal market. This decision is based on Article 6(1)(b) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1). The full text of the decision is available only in English language and will be made public after it is cleared of any business secrets it may contain. It will be available:

| — | in the merger section of the Competition website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes, |
| --- | --- |

—

in the merger section of the Competition website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes,

| — | in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32014M7262. EUR-Lex is the online access to the European law. |
| --- | --- |

—

in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32014M7262. EUR-Lex is the online access to the European law.

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1.

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| 2.7.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 205/2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

2.7.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 205/2

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Non-opposition to a notified concentration

(Case M.7244 — China Huaxin Post and Telecommunication Economy Development Center/Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise Business)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2014/C 205/02)

On 25 June 2014, the Commission decided not to oppose the above notified concentration and to declare it compatible with the internal market. This decision is based on Article 6(1)(b) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1). The full text of the decision is available only in English language and will be made public after it is cleared of any business secrets it may contain. It will be available:

| — | in the merger section of the Competition website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes, |
| --- | --- |

—

in the merger section of the Competition website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes,

| — | in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32014M7244. EUR-Lex is the online access to the European law. |
| --- | --- |

—

in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32014M7244. EUR-Lex is the online access to the European law.

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1.

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IV Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

| 2.7.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 205/3 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

2.7.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 205/3

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Interest rate applied by the European Central Bank to its main refinancing operations (1):

0,15 % on 1 July 2014

Euro exchange rates (2)

1 July 2014

(2014/C 205/03)

1 euro =

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 1,3688 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 138,98 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4557 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,79810 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 9,1600 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 1,2138 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 8,4380 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 27,433 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 310,43 |
| LTL | Lithuanian litas | 3,4528 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 4,1582 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 4,3881 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 2,9066 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,4479 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,4587 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 10,6083 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,5624 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 1,7054 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 384,55 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 14,5848 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 8,4883 |
| HRK | Croatian kuna | 7,5800 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 16 251,94 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,3893 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 59,764 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | 46,8950 |
| THB | Thai baht | 44,367 |
| BRL | Brazilian real | 3,0349 |
| MXN | Mexican peso | 17,7759 |
| INR | Indian rupee | 82,2307 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

1,3688

JPY

Japanese yen

138,98

DKK

Danish krone

7,4557

GBP

Pound sterling

0,79810

SEK

Swedish krona

9,1600

CHF

Swiss franc

1,2138

ISK

Iceland króna

NOK

Norwegian krone

8,4380

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CZK

Czech koruna

27,433

HUF

Hungarian forint

310,43

LTL

Lithuanian litas

3,4528

PLN

Polish zloty

4,1582

RON

Romanian leu

4,3881

TRY

Turkish lira

2,9066

AUD

Australian dollar

1,4479

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,4587

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

10,6083

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,5624

SGD

Singapore dollar

1,7054

KRW

South Korean won

1 384,55

ZAR

South African rand

14,5848

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

8,4883

HRK

Croatian kuna

7,5800

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

16 251,94

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,3893

PHP

Philippine peso

59,764

RUB

Russian rouble

46,8950

THB

Thai baht

44,367

BRL

Brazilian real

3,0349

MXN

Mexican peso

17,7759

INR

Indian rupee

82,2307

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(1)  Rate applied to the most recent operation carried out before the indicated day. In the case of a variable rate tender, the interest rate is the marginal rate.

(2)  Source: reference exchange rate published by the ECB.

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| 2.7.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 205/4 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

2.7.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 205/4

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COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING DECISION

of 30 June 2014

on financing the 2014 work programme on training in the field of food and feed safety, animal health, animal welfare and plant health in the framework of the ‘Better Training for Safer Food’ programme

(2014/C 205/04)

THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

Having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), and in particular Article 84 thereof,

Having regard to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1268/2012 (2), and in particular Article 94 thereof,

Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 58/2003 (3) and in particular Article 12(3) thereof,

Having regard to Council Directive 2000/29/EC (4) and in particular Article 2(1)(i) thereof,

Having regard to Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council (5), and in particular Article 66(1)(b) and (c) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 lays down general rules for the performance of official controls to verify compliance with rules aiming, in particular, at preventing, eliminating or reducing to acceptable levels risks to humans and animals and guaranteeing fair practices in feed and food trade and protecting consumer interests. Article 51 of that Regulation provides that the Commission may organise training courses for the staff of the competent authorities of Member States responsible for the official controls referred to in that Regulation, which may be opened to participants from third countries, in particular developing countries. Those courses may include, in particular, training on European Union feed and food law and animal health and animal welfare rules. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 lays down general rules for the performance of official controls to verify compliance with rules aiming, in particular, at preventing, eliminating or reducing to acceptable levels risks to humans and animals and guaranteeing fair practices in feed and food trade and protecting consumer interests. Article 51 of that Regulation provides that the Commission may organise training courses for the staff of the competent authorities of Member States responsible for the official controls referred to in that Regulation, which may be opened to participants from third countries, in particular developing countries. Those courses may include, in particular, training on European Union feed and food law and animal health and animal welfare rules.

| (2) | Article 2(1)(i) of Directive 2000/29/EC provides the legal basis for organising courses in the field of plant health. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

Article 2(1)(i) of Directive 2000/29/EC provides the legal basis for organising courses in the field of plant health.

| (3) | The ‘Better Training for Safer Food’ Programme has been established in 2006 by the Commission in order to achieve the aims set out in Regulation (EC) No 882/2004. The Commission Communication of 20 September 2006 on ‘Better training for safer food’ (6) explores options for future organisation of training. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

The ‘Better Training for Safer Food’ Programme has been established in 2006 by the Commission in order to achieve the aims set out in Regulation (EC) No 882/2004. The Commission Communication of 20 September 2006 on ‘Better training for safer food’ (6) explores options for future organisation of training.

| (4) | In order to ensure implementation of the ‘Better Training for Safer Food’ Programme in Member States it is necessary to adopt a financing decision and the work programme on training in the field of food and feed safety, animal health, animal welfare and plant health for 2014. Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1268/2012 establishes detailed rules on financing decisions. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

In order to ensure implementation of the ‘Better Training for Safer Food’ Programme in Member States it is necessary to adopt a financing decision and the work programme on training in the field of food and feed safety, animal health, animal welfare and plant health for 2014. Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1268/2012 establishes detailed rules on financing decisions.

| (5) | Commission Implementing Decision 2013/770/EU (7) establishes the ‘Consumers, Health and Food Executive Agency’ (hereafter ‘the Agency’). This Decision entrusts the Agency with certain management and programme implementation tasks relating to the food safety training measures performed pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 and Directive 2000/29/EC. A Union financial contribution should therefore be granted to the Agency in 2014 for financing the operating costs of the activities related to the ‘Better Training for Safer Food’ Programme. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

Commission Implementing Decision 2013/770/EU (7) establishes the ‘Consumers, Health and Food Executive Agency’ (hereafter ‘the Agency’). This Decision entrusts the Agency with certain management and programme implementation tasks relating to the food safety training measures performed pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 and Directive 2000/29/EC. A Union financial contribution should therefore be granted to the Agency in 2014 for financing the operating costs of the activities related to the ‘Better Training for Safer Food’ Programme.

| (6) | For the application of this Decision, it is appropriate to define the term ‘substantial change’, within the meaning of Article 94(4) of Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1268/2012. |
| --- | --- |

(6)

For the application of this Decision, it is appropriate to define the term ‘substantial change’, within the meaning of Article 94(4) of Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1268/2012.

| (7) | This Decision should allow for the payment of interest due for late payment on the basis of Article 92 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 and Article 111(4) of Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1268/2012, |
| --- | --- |

(7)

This Decision should allow for the payment of interest due for late payment on the basis of Article 92 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 and Article 111(4) of Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1268/2012,

HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:

Article 1

The annual work programme for the implementation of the Better Training for Safer Food Programme for 2014, as set out in the Annex, is adopted. It constitutes a financing decision within the meaning of Article 84 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012.

Article 2

1.   The maximum contribution for the implementation of the work programme for the year 2014 is set at EUR 16 170 000 and shall be financed from the following lines of the general budget of the European Union for 2014:

| (a) | budget line 17 04 03: EUR 15 000 000 |
| --- | --- |

(a)

budget line 17 04 03: EUR 15 000 000

| (b) | budget line 17 01 06 03: EUR 1 170 000. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

budget line 17 01 06 03: EUR 1 170 000.

2.   The amount provided for in paragraph 1(b) shall be paid to the Consumers, Health and Food Executive Agency and shall constitute an operating financial contribution.

3.   The appropriations provided for in point 1(a) may also cover interest due for late payment.

Article 3

Cumulated changes to the allocations to specific actions not exceeding 20 % of the maximum contribution provided for in Article 2(1) of this Decision shall not be considered to be substantial within the meaning of Article 94(4) of Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1268/2012, where those changes do not significantly affect the nature of the actions and objective of the work programme.

The authorising officer responsible may adopt such changes in accordance with the principles of sound financial management and of proportionality.

Done at Brussels, 30 June 2014.

For the Commission

Tonio BORG

Member of the Commission

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(1)  Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (OJ L 298, 26.10.2012, p. 1).

1

(2)  Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1268/2012 of 29 October 2012 on the rules of application of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (OJ L 362, 31.12.2012, p. 1).

2

(3)  Council Regulation (EC) No 58/2003 of 19 December 2002 laying down the statute for executive agencies to be entrusted with certain tasks in the management of Community programmes (OJ L 11, 16.1.2003, p. 1).

3

(4)  Council Directive 2000/29/EC of 8 May 2000 on protective measures against the introduction into the Community of organisms harmful to plants or plant products and against their spread within the Community (OJ L 169, 10.7.2000, p. 1).

4

(5)  Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2004 on official controls performed to ensure the verification of compliance with feed and food law, animal health and animal welfare rules (OJ L 165, 30.4.2004, p. 1).

5

(6)  COM(2006) 519 final of 20.9.2006.

6

(7)  Commission Implementing Decision 2013/770/EU of 17 December 2013 establishing the Consumers, Health and Food Executive Agency and repealing Decision 2004/858/EC (OJ L 341, 18.12.2013, p. 69).

7

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ANNEX

2014 work programme on training in the field of food and feed safety, animal health, animal welfare and plant health in the framework of the Better Training for Safer Food Programme

1.1.   Introduction

On the basis of the objectives laid down in Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 and Directive 2000/29/EC, this work programme contains the actions to be financed and the budget breakdown for year 2014 as follows:

| 1.2. | Procurement (implemented under direct management): External contracts for the execution of the training programme and other learning tools |
| --- | --- |

1.2.

Procurement (implemented under direct management): External contracts for the execution of the training programme and other learning tools

EUR 15 000 000

| 1.3. | Other actions: Operating financial contribution for the Consumers, Health and Food Executive Agency |
| --- | --- |

1.3.

Other actions: Operating financial contribution for the Consumers, Health and Food Executive Agency

EUR 1 170 000

TOTAL

EUR 16 170 000

1.2.   Procurement: External contract for the execution of the training programme and other learning tools

The overall budgetary allocation reserved for procurement contracts in 2014 amounts to EUR 15 000 000.

LEGAL BASIS

Regulation (EC) No 882/2004, Article 51 and Article 66(1)(b) and (c)

Directive 2000/29/EC, Article 2(1)(i)

BUDGETARY LINE

Budget line: 17 04 03

INDICATIVE NUMBER AND TYPE OF CONTRACTS ENVISAGED

For each of the technical issues referred to below, one or more direct or framework service contracts will be signed. It is estimated that around 12 to 14 direct service contracts and 1 to 3 specific service contracts will be signed. External contractors are mainly involved in the organisational and logistical aspects of the training activities.

SUBJECT OF THE CONTRACTS ENVISAGED (IF POSSIBLE)

For 2014, the training action in Member States will concern the following subjects:

| Activities | Amount in EUR |
| --- | --- |
| Animal by-products | 875 000 |
| Feed law | 990 000 |
| Control of contaminants | 990 000 |
| Control checks at Border Inspection Posts | 850 000 |
| Import controls on food of non-animal origin | 920 000 |
| TRACES (sanitary and phytosanitary aspects) | 645 000 |
| Control of movements of dogs and cats | 625 000 |
| Microbiological criteria in foodstuffs | 725 000 |
| Food-borne outbreaks investigation | 1 450 000 |
| Animal welfare | 1 310 000 |
| Food information and composition | 1 450 000 |
| Food testing | 1 200 000 |
| Plant Health Controls | 1 150 000 |
| Zoonoses and Anti-Microbial Resistance | 370 000 |
| Food Contact Materials | 240 000 |
| Inspection of pesticide application equipment | 310 000 |
| EU veterinary and phytosanitary framework | 375 000 |
| Other animal health and welfare, plant health and food safety training issues and conferences, studies, assistance and other learning and dissemination tools | 525 000 |
| TOTAL | 15 000 000 |

Activities

Amount in EUR

Animal by-products

875 000

Feed law

990 000

Control of contaminants

990 000

Control checks at Border Inspection Posts

850 000

Import controls on food of non-animal origin

920 000

TRACES (sanitary and phytosanitary aspects)

645 000

Control of movements of dogs and cats

625 000

Microbiological criteria in foodstuffs

725 000

Food-borne outbreaks investigation

1 450 000

Animal welfare

1 310 000

Food information and composition

1 450 000

Food testing

1 200 000

Plant Health Controls

1 150 000

Zoonoses and Anti-Microbial Resistance

370 000

Food Contact Materials

240 000

Inspection of pesticide application equipment

310 000

EU veterinary and phytosanitary framework

375 000

Other animal health and welfare, plant health and food safety training issues and conferences, studies, assistance and other learning and dissemination tools

525 000

TOTAL

15 000 000

IMPLEMENTATION

EUR 14 885 000 (financing of food safety measures under Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 and Directive 2000/29/EC) will be managed and implemented by the Consumers, Health and Food Executive Agency (Commission Decision 2013/770/EU). The remaining EUR 115 000 will be used by the Commission to cover support to e-learning development.

INDICATIVE TIMEFRAME FOR LAUNCHING THE PROCUREMENT PROCEDURE

Approximately between June and September in order to have the contracts signed during 2014.

INDICATIVE AMOUNT OF THE CALL FOR TENDERS

EUR 15 000 000

1.3.   Other actions: Operating financial contribution for the Consumers, Health and Food Executive Agency

LEGAL BASIS

Council Regulation (EC) No 58/2003, in particular Article 12(3).

BUDGETARY LINE

Budget line: 17 01 06 03

AMOUNT

EUR 1 170 000

DESCRIPTION AND OBJECTIVE OF THE IMPLEMENTING MEASURE

The budget under budget line 17 01 06 03 finances the Consumers, Health and Food Executive Agency’s 2014 operating financial contribution for the part related to the Better Training for Safer Food programme. According to Article 12(3) of Regulation (EC) No 58/2003 the operating financial contribution is to be drawn from the financial allocation to the Union programmes managed by the Agency.

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Court of Auditors

| 2.7.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 205/9 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

2.7.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 205/9

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Special Report No 9/2014

‘Is the EU investment and promotion support to the wine sector well managed and are its results on the competitiveness of EU wines demonstrated?’

(2014/C 205/05)

The European Court of Auditors hereby informs you that Special Report No 9/2014 ‘Is the EU investment and promotion support to the wine sector well managed and are its results on the competitiveness of EU wines demonstrated?’ has just been published.

The report can be accessed for consultation or downloading on the European Court of Auditors’ website: http://eca.europa.eu

A hard copy version of the report may be obtained free of charge on request to the Court of Auditors:

| European Court of Auditors |
| --- |
| Publications (PUB) |
| 12, rue Alcide de Gasperi |
| 1615 Luxembourg |
| LUXEMBOURG |
| Tel. +352 4398-1 |
| e-mail: eca-info@eca.europa.eu |

European Court of Auditors

Publications (PUB)

12, rue Alcide de Gasperi

1615 Luxembourg

LUXEMBOURG

Tel. +352 4398-1

e-mail: eca-info@eca.europa.eu

or by filling in an electronic order form on EU-Bookshop.

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NOTICES FROM MEMBER STATES

| 2.7.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 205/10 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

2.7.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 205/10

---

Communication from the French Government concerning Directive 94/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the conditions for granting and using authorisations for the prospection, exploration and production of hydrocarbons (1)

(Notice regarding applications for exclusive licences to prospect for liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons, designated the ‘Boissy Licences’)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2014/C 205/06)

On 17 March 2014, Perf’Energy SAS, a company with registered offices at 35 avenue d’Eprémesnil, 78290 Croissy-sur-Seine (France) applied for an exclusive five-year licence, designated the ‘Boissy licence’, to prospect for liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons in the Department of Essonne.

The perimeter of the area covered by this licence consists of the meridian and parallel arcs connecting in turn the points defined below by their geographical coordinates in grads, the meridian of origin being the Paris meridian.

| | NTF (French new triangulation system) meridian of origin, Paris | RGF93 (French geodesic network) meridian of origin, Greenwich |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Longitude | Latitude | Longitude | Latitude |
| A | 0,20 gr W | 54,10 gr N | 2° 09′ 23′′ | 48° 41′ 24′′ |
| B | 0,00 | 54,10 gr N | 2° 20′ 11′′ | 48° 41′ 24′′ |
| C | 0,00 | 54,04 gr N | 2° 20′ 11′′ | 48° 38′ 09′′ |
| D | 0,02 gr W | 54,04 gr N | 2° 19′ 07′′ | 48° 38′ 09′′ |
| E | 0,02 gr W | 54,02 gr N | 2° 19′ 07′′ | 48° 37′ 04′′ |
| F | 0,03 gr W | 54,02 gr N | 2° 18′ 34′′ | 48° 37′ 04′′ |
| G | 0,03 gr W | 53,95 gr N | 2° 18′ 34′′ | 48° 33′ 18′′ |
| H | 0,00 | 53,95 gr N | 2° 20′ 11′′ | 48° 33′ 18′′ |
| I | 0,00 | 53,92 gr N | 2° 20′ 11′′ | 48° 31′ 40′′ |
| J | 0,02 gr W | 53,92 gr N | 2° 19′ 07′′ | 48° 31′ 40′′ |
| K | 0,02 gr W | 53,83 gr N | 2° 19′ 07′′ | 48° 26′ 49′′ |
| L | 0,00 | 53,83 gr N | 2° 20′ 11′′ | 48° 26′ 49′′ |
| M | 0,00 | 53,80 gr N | 2° 20′ 11′′ | 48° 25′ 12′′ |
| N | 0,30 gr W | 53,80 gr N | 2° 04′ 00′′ | 48° 25′ 12′′ |
| O | 0,30 gr W | 54,00 gr N | 2° 04′ 00′′ | 48° 36′ 00′′ |
| P | 0,20 gr W | 54,00 gr N | 2° 09′ 23′′ | 48° 36′ 00′′ |

NTF (French new triangulation system) meridian of origin, Paris

RGF93 (French geodesic network) meridian of origin, Greenwich

Longitude

Latitude

Longitude

Latitude

A

0,20 gr W

54,10 gr N

2° 09′ 23′′

48° 41′ 24′′

B

0,00

54,10 gr N

2° 20′ 11′′

48° 41′ 24′′

C

0,00

54,04 gr N

2° 20′ 11′′

48° 38′ 09′′

D

0,02 gr W

54,04 gr N

2° 19′ 07′′

48° 38′ 09′′

E

0,02 gr W

54,02 gr N

2° 19′ 07′′

48° 37′ 04′′

F

0,03 gr W

54,02 gr N

2° 18′ 34′′

48° 37′ 04′′

G

0,03 gr W

53,95 gr N

2° 18′ 34′′

48° 33′ 18′′

H

0,00

53,95 gr N

2° 20′ 11′′

48° 33′ 18′′

I

0,00

53,92 gr N

2° 20′ 11′′

48° 31′ 40′′

J

0,02 gr W

53,92 gr N

2° 19′ 07′′

48° 31′ 40′′

K

0,02 gr W

53,83 gr N

2° 19′ 07′′

48° 26′ 49′′

L

0,00

53,83 gr N

2° 20′ 11′′

48° 26′ 49′′

M

0,00

53,80 gr N

2° 20′ 11′′

48° 25′ 12′′

N

0,30 gr W

53,80 gr N

2° 04′ 00′′

48° 25′ 12′′

O

0,30 gr W

54,00 gr N

2° 04′ 00′′

48° 36′ 00′′

P

0,20 gr W

54,00 gr N

2° 09′ 23′′

48° 36′ 00′′

The area as defined above covers approximately 504 km2.

Submission of applications and criteria for awarding rights

The initial applicant and competing applicants must prove that they meet the requirements for obtaining the licence, as specified in Articles 4 and 5 of Decree No 2006-648 of 2 June 2006 (as amended) concerning mining rights and underground storage rights (Official Journal of the French Republic, 3 June 2006).

Interested companies may, within 90 days of the publication of this notice, submit a competing application in accordance with the procedure summarised in the ‘Notice regarding the granting of mining rights for hydrocarbons in France’, published in Official Journal of the European Communities C 374 of 30 December 1994, page 11, and established by Decree No 2006-648 of 2 June 2006 (as amended) concerning mining rights and underground storage rights (Official Journal of the French Republic, 3 June 2006).

Competing applications must be sent to the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy at the address given below. Decisions on the initial application and competing applications will be taken within two years of the date on which the French authorities received the initial application, i.e. by 1 February 2016 at the latest.

Conditions and requirements regarding performance of the activity and cessation thereof

Applicants are referred to Articles 79 and 79(1) of the French Mining Code and to Decree No 2006-649 of 2 June 2006 (as amended) on mining and underground storage operations and the regulations governing mining and underground storage (Official Journal of the French Republic, 3 June 2006).

Further information can be obtained from the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy:

| Direction générale de l’énergie et du climat – Direction de l’énergie |
| --- |
| SD2/2A |
| Grande Arche, Paroi Nord |
| 92055 La Défense Cedex |
| FRANCE |
| Tel. +33 140819527 |

Direction générale de l’énergie et du climat – Direction de l’énergie

SD2/2A

Grande Arche, Paroi Nord

92055 La Défense Cedex

FRANCE

Tel. +33 140819527

The aforementioned laws and regulations can be consulted on the Légifrance website:

http://www.legifrance.gouv.fr

---

(1)  OJ L 164, 30.6.1994, p. 3.

---

V Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

| 2.7.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 205/12 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

2.7.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 205/12

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case M.7169 — Weichai Power/Kion Group)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2014/C 205/07)

| 1. | On 19 June 2014, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertaking Weichai Power Co. Ltd (‘Weichai’, China), controlled by Shandong Heavy Industry Group Co., Ltd (‘SHIG’, China), acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation control of the whole of the undertaking Kion Group AG (‘Kion’, Germany) following a share transaction. |
| --- | --- |

1.

On 19 June 2014, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertaking Weichai Power Co. Ltd (‘Weichai’, China), controlled by Shandong Heavy Industry Group Co., Ltd (‘SHIG’, China), acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation control of the whole of the undertaking Kion Group AG (‘Kion’, Germany) following a share transaction.

| 2. | The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:
  —   for Weichai: automotive and equipment manufacturing group operating in power assembly (engines, gear boxes and axles), commercial vehicles, automobile electronics and parts, high pressure hydraulic pumps, hydraulic motors, hydraulic valves, gears and gear drives, ancillary castings and foundry of other hydraulic components,
  —   for SHIG: group active in commercial vehicles, construction machinery (including forklift trucks), power systems, auto parts, and yachts,
  —   for Kion: manufacturer of forklift trucks, warehouse handling equipment and other industrial trucks. |
| --- | --- |

2.

The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:

—   for Weichai: automotive and equipment manufacturing group operating in power assembly (engines, gear boxes and axles), commercial vehicles, automobile electronics and parts, high pressure hydraulic pumps, hydraulic motors, hydraulic valves, gears and gear drives, ancillary castings and foundry of other hydraulic components,

—   for SHIG: group active in commercial vehicles, construction machinery (including forklift trucks), power systems, auto parts, and yachts,

—   for Kion: manufacturer of forklift trucks, warehouse handling equipment and other industrial trucks.

| 3. | On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of the Merger Regulation. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under the Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice. |
| --- | --- |

3.

On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of the Merger Regulation. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under the Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice.

| 4. | The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.
  Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (+32 22964301), by e-mail to COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu or by post, under reference number M.7169 — Weichai Power/Kion Group, to the following address:





  European Commission |
| --- | --- |
| Directorate-General for Competition |
| Merger Registry |
| 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel |
| BELGIQUE/BELGIË |

4.

The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.

Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (+32 22964301), by e-mail to COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu or by post, under reference number M.7169 — Weichai Power/Kion Group, to the following address:

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1 (the ‘Merger Regulation’).

(2)  OJ C 366, 14.12.2013, p. 5.

---

| 2.7.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 205/13 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

2.7.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 205/13

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case M.7215 — AMEC/Foster Wheeler)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2014/C 205/08)

| 1. | On 24 June 2014 the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertaking AMEC plc (‘AMEC’ of United Kingdom) acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation control of the whole of the undertaking Foster Wheeler AG (‘Foster Wheeler’ of Switzerland) by way of public bid. |
| --- | --- |

1.

On 24 June 2014 the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertaking AMEC plc (‘AMEC’ of United Kingdom) acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation control of the whole of the undertaking Foster Wheeler AG (‘Foster Wheeler’ of Switzerland) by way of public bid.

| 2. | The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:






  — | AMEC is a global supplier of consultancy, engineering and project management services to customers in the world’s oil and gas, mining, clean energy and environment and infrastructure industry segments. |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:

—

AMEC is a global supplier of consultancy, engineering and project management services to customers in the world’s oil and gas, mining, clean energy and environment and infrastructure industry segments.

| — | Foster Wheeler is a global engineering, construction and project management contractor and power equipment supplier amongst others in the oil and gas, chemicals, power, environment and pharmaceuticals segments. |
| --- | --- |

—

Foster Wheeler is a global engineering, construction and project management contractor and power equipment supplier amongst others in the oil and gas, chemicals, power, environment and pharmaceuticals segments.

| 3. | On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of the Merger Regulation. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under the Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice. |
| --- | --- |

3.

On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of the Merger Regulation. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under the Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice.

| 4. | The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.
  Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (+32 22964301), by email to COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu or by post, under reference number M.7215 — AMEC/Foster Wheeler, to the following address:





  European Commission |
| --- | --- |
| Directorate-General for Competition |
| Merger Registry |
| 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel |
| BELGIQUE/BELGIË |

4.

The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.

Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (+32 22964301), by email to COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu or by post, under reference number M.7215 — AMEC/Foster Wheeler, to the following address:

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1 (the ‘Merger Regulation’).

(2)  OJ C 366, 14.12.2013, p. 5.

---

| 2.7.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 205/14 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

2.7.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 205/14

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case M.7290 — Apple/Beats)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2014/C 205/09)

| 1. | On 24 June 2014, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertaking Apple Inc. (United States of America) acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation sole control of the undertakings Beats Electronics, LLC and Beats Music, LLC (United States of America) by way of purchase of shares. |
| --- | --- |

1.

On 24 June 2014, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertaking Apple Inc. (United States of America) acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation sole control of the undertakings Beats Electronics, LLC and Beats Music, LLC (United States of America) by way of purchase of shares.

| 2. | The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:
  —   for Apple Inc.: design, manufacturing and marketing of mobile communication and media devices, personal computers and portable digital music players, and sale of related software, services, peripherals, networking solutions, and third-party digital content and applications,
  —   for Beats Electronics, LLC: design, development and promotion of specialist audio technology, including headphones, audio speakers and, to a limited extent, audio software/hardware technology for computer hardware devices,
  —   for Beats Music, LLC: distribution of music. |
| --- | --- |

2.

The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:

—   for Apple Inc.: design, manufacturing and marketing of mobile communication and media devices, personal computers and portable digital music players, and sale of related software, services, peripherals, networking solutions, and third-party digital content and applications,

—   for Beats Electronics, LLC: design, development and promotion of specialist audio technology, including headphones, audio speakers and, to a limited extent, audio software/hardware technology for computer hardware devices,

—   for Beats Music, LLC: distribution of music.

| 3. | On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of the Merger Regulation. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. |
| --- | --- |

3.

On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of the Merger Regulation. However, the final decision on this point is reserved.

| 4. | The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.
  Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (+32 22964301), by e-mail to COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu or by post, under reference number M.7290 — Apple/Beats to the following address:





  European Commission |
| --- | --- |
| Directorate-General for Competition |
| Merger Registry |
| 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel |
| BELGIQUE/BELGIË |

4.

The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.

Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (+32 22964301), by e-mail to COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu or by post, under reference number M.7290 — Apple/Beats to the following address:

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1 (the ‘Merger Regulation’).

---

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

| 2.7.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 205/15 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

2.7.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 205/15

---

Publication of an amendment application 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

(2014/C 205/10)

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).

AMENDMENT APPLICATION

COUNCIL REGULATION (EC) NO 510/2006

on the protection of geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs (2)

AMENDMENT APPLICATION ACCORDING TO ARTICLE 9

‘BRA’

EC No: IT-PDO-0117-01048 — 19.10.2012

PGI ( ) PDO ( X )

1.   Heading in the product specification affected by the amendment

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

2.   Type of amendment

—

—

—

—

3.   Amendment(s)

Type of product

Description of product to which the name applies

To better inform consumers, the words ‘fat or semi-fat’ have been inserted, since for Bra Tenero whole milk is used, while for Bra Duro and Bra di Alpeggio either whole or semi-skimmed milk may be used; furthermore, it has been specified that the possible addition of sheep/goat milk must not exceed 20 %.

It has been specified that the dimensions and weights refer to the product after the minimum maturation period, since very long maturation periods can lead to further significant reductions. It has been considered appropriate to explicitly indicate that the rind is not edible, so as not to leave the consumer in any doubt. The Duro rind may be treated with edible oils to prevent mould growth and to make it more attractive, in line with the wishes of the consumer.

Area of production

In order to bring the Bra specification into line with the principle that there should be a single, uniform PDO reference area, the municipality of Villafranca Piemonte, in the Province of Turin, in which only the maturing phase may take place according to the current specification, has been included in the geographical area for all stages.

Method of production

It has been specified that the milk used is whole or semi-skimmed and the liquid rennet used is calf rennet. This was not explicitly mentioned in the Presidential Decree of 16 December 1982 because at that time all liquid rennet on the market was from calves.

Since the current specification does not clarify what share of the dairy animals’ fodder must come from the defined production area, in order to better highlight the link with the territory it has been specified that more than 50 % by weight of the fodder must come from the production areas. The typical feed of the dairy animals (cows, sheep, goats) is green and/or conserved fodder, which may be supplemented by other appropriate feedingstuffs.

Due to the use of ever more efficient refrigeration and storage systems, the average number of daily milkings has been increased up to a maximum of 4 while retaining the same characteristics.

Regarding the partial skimming of the milk, this may be done either mechanically, as has been the practice since the early 1900s, or by natural creaming, with the same results. Both methods are based on the same physical principle, namely the separation of the two phases (the lighter fat and the heavier water) based on their different specific weights.

In addition, to give precise indications and — taking into account the seasonal variations which obviously have an effect on the characteristics of the milk — to ensure a partial skimming with the most uniform possible fat content with optimum creaming, the resting time for surface-creamed milk has been increased and the maximum temperature at which this process must take place has been laid down. Therefore, the resting time, which is also influenced by the season, has been increased by two hours, from 12/18 hours to 10/18 hours, and a maximum temperature of 18 °C has been fixed.

After the milk has been cleansed of impurities (through heat treatment, filtration, etc.) it can be inoculated with lactic acid enzymes and/or natural inocula (milk starter or whey starter).

The general improvement in the microbiological characteristics of the milk obtained in recent years has led to a significant decrease in the bacteria present, which in some cases has caused problems in the coagulation and maturation stages. In order to overcome these potential problems, a provision has been included in the specification that lactic acid enzymes and/or natural inocula may be used. Moreover, in the specification of 1982, the maximum curdling temperature of the milk was between 27 °C and 32 °C; this has been increased to between 27 °C and 38 °C, as the starter cultures and the natural inocula develop better at a coagulation temperature close to 38 °C (i.e. the temperature of the milk during milking).

The sentence in the Presidential Decree of 1982 reading ‘The cheese must be produced using the typical curd double-cutting method’ has been further specified.

In particular, it has been specified that the duration of coagulation (15/25 minutes) must be determined from the first cutting, so as to have an objectively identifiable and measurable time-frame. The aim of correctly determining this coagulation time is to obtain a homogeneous particle size which allows for better separation of the whey. Since the previous time-frame was too inaccurate, this method gives a maximum value.

In addition, the first and second curd cutting phases have been described in more detail by adding the following:

After the first cutting the curd is of nut size for Bra Tenero and of maize-corn size for Bra Duro; the cut curd is then rested in the whey for a maximum of 8 minutes.

After the second cutting the curd is of maize-corn size for Bra Tenero and of rice-grain size for Bra Duro. The second cutting is followed by stirring, and the curd is then left in the cheese-vat or scoop, where it may be pre-pressed, draining off some of the whey. The maximum resting time is 10 minutes, and the maximum temperature of the curd when taken out of the vat is 44 °C.

The moulding and pressing phases have been described in detail.

The curd is put into the moulds, possibly in a cheesecloth. Only in the case of Bra Duro, and only if the curd does not drain well, can it be remixed and then moulded, followed by appropriate pressing. The pressed cheese is then left until its pH value is between 5,0 and 5,4.

The pH value rather than the time is indicated because this is a more modern and suitable indicator giving a more accurate and reliable measurement and better results. After this the cheese can be laid directly into saline solution or left to rest for a few hours in a storeroom with a maximum temperature of 10 °C.

The product specification has been amended by inserting the following sentence:

‘Maturation shall take place in a suitable location, with a maximum temperature of 15 °C and a maximum humidity of 95 %.’

This amendment takes account of the producers’ demand not to have to mature the cheese exclusively in cold stores or in climate-controlled stores.

Due to this amendment the current maturing temperature of 6– 9 °C has been increased to a maximum of 15 °C, and the relative humidity of 80-85 % for Bra Duro and 90 % for Bra Tenero has been increased to a maximum of 95 % for both varieties.

This allows maturing to be carried out more efficiently, and takes account of the conditions in locations without artificial air-conditioning.

Link

This has been reworded to bring it in line with the Single Document.

Labelling

Clarifications have been provided on the ways in which the product is sold for consumption and on cutting and pre-packaging, which may take place outside the geographical production area.

For Bra Duro, the option has been added of selling it in pre-packaged grated form, so as to meet the demands of consumers who more and more often want ready-to-use products.

To ensure the authenticity of the product and so that it can be easily recognised by consumers, it has been deemed necessary for the heel of the cheese to be marked and a round paper label bearing the Bra PDO logo to be applied.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

COUNCIL REGULATION (EC) NO 510/2006

on the protection of geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs (3)

‘BRA’

EC No: IT-PDO-0117-01048 — 19.10.2012

PGI ( ) PDO ( X )

1.   Name

‘Bra’

2.   Member State or Third Country

Italy

3.   Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

3.1.   Type of product

Class 1.3 — Cheese

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

Description: ‘Bra’ is a fat or semi-fat pressed cheese made from cow’s milk; semi-skimmed milk may be used for Bra d’Alpeggio and Bra Duro. Sheep/goat milk may be added up to a maximum of 20 %.

The finished product must have the following characteristics:

Form: cylindrical with flat sides.

Dimensions: diameter 30-40 cm, slightly convex heel of 6-10 cm, with variations in the minimum and maximum figures for both characteristics in line with the technical conditions of production.

Weight: from 6 to 9 kg.

The measurements and weights refer to the cheese after the minimum maturation period.

Rind: for Bra Tenero: light grey, elastic, smooth and regular, non-edible; for Bra Duro: hard, firm, ranging from golden brown to dark grey, possibly treated with edible oils to prevent mould growth, non-edible.

Texture of the body of the cheese: Bra Tenero: moderately firm and elastic, with small holes, not too many in number; Bra Duro: small holes, not too many in number.

Colour of the body of the cheese: Bra Tenero: white or ivory; Bra Duro: light straw-coloured to ochre.

Flavour: pleasantly aromatic, moderately savoury for Bra Tenero, flavoursome to highly savoury for Bra Duro.

Fat content in dry matter: 32 % minimum.

3.3.   Raw materials (for processed products only)

Cow’s milk, possibly with the addition of small amounts (maximum 20 %) of sheep/goat milk, possibly semi-skimmed for Bra Duro. For Bra d’Alpeggio the milk used may be semi-skimmed for both the Tenero and Duro varieties; salt, liquid calf rennet.

3.4.   Feed (for products of animal origin only)

Most of the dairy animals’ (cows, possibly sheep or goats) basic fodder must be green and/or conserved fodder, or hay fodder supplemented with appropriate feedingstuffs. More than 50 % (by weight) of this fodder must come from the production areas.

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

Holdings rearing the animals whose milk is used to produce ‘Bra’ must be located within the defined geographical area.

The milk must be produced, processed and matured within the defined geographical area.

3.6.   Specific rules concerning slicing, grating, packaging, etc.

The cheese may be sold whole, sliced, in portions or pre-packaged. Bra Duro may also be sold in pre-packaged grated form. Cutting, pre-packaging and grating may take place outside the geographical production area.

3.7.   Specific rules concerning labelling

After the cheese is moulded, special ring-shaped stamps are used to apply the origin mark featuring the stylised letter B, the variety (Duro or Tenero) and the producer’s number consisting of the abbreviation of the province and a two-digit number.

The conformity mark is given on a round paper label, 20-28 cm in diameter, on a straw-yellow halftone background for normal production and on a green halftone background for Bra d’Alpeggio, and on the branding stamped on the heel. The conformity mark consists of a paper label bearing the words BRA TENERO or BRA DURO, BRA TENERO D’ALPEGGIO or BRA DURO D’ALPEGGIO, as well as the characteristic logo of a little man with moustache and hat carrying a cheese from which a piece has already been cut out, and the EU logo. The product may be marketed with the ‘Bra’ protected designation of origin only after such marking and labelling.

Food glue may be used to affix the paper label.

4.   Concise definition of the geographical area

The production and maturation area consists of the entire Province of Cuneo and the municipality of Villafranca Piemonte in the Province of Turin. Bra Tenero and Duro may bear the suffix ‘di Alpeggio’ if they are produced and matured in the mountainous municipalities of Brondello, Castellar, Crissolo, Gambasca, Martiniana Po, Oncino, Ostana, Paesana, Pagno, Rifreddo, Sanfront, Bellino, Brossasco, Casteldelfino, Frassino, Isasca, Melle, Piasco, Pontechianale, Rossana, Sampeyre, Valmala, Venasca, Acceglio, Canosio, Cartignano, Celle Macra, Dronero, Elva, Macra, Marmora, Prazzo, Roccabruna, S. Damiano Macra, Stroppo, Villar S. Costanzo, Bernezzo, Castelmagno, Cervasca, Montemale, Monterosso Grana, Pradleves, Valgrana, Cignolo, Aisone, Argentera, Demonte, Gaiola, Moiola, Pietraporzio, Rittana, Roccasparvera, Sambuco, Valloriate, Vinadio, Chiusa Pesio, Entracque, Limone Piemonte, Roaschia, Robilante, Roccavione, Valdieri, Vernante, Briaglia, Frabosa Soprana, Frabosa Sottana, Monasterolo Casotto, Monastero di Vasco, Montaldo Mondovì, Pamparato, Roburent, Roccaforte Mondovì, S. Michele Mondovì, Torre Mondovì, Vicoforte Alto, Bagnasco, Battifollo, Briga Alta, Caprauna, Castelnuovo Ceva, Garessio, Lisio, Mombasiglio, Montezemolo, Nucetto, Ormea, Perlo, Priero, Priola, Sale S. Giovanni, Scagnello, Viola and parts of the following areas classified as mountainous by Law No 991 of 25 July 1952, as amended: Barge, Bagnolo Piemonte, Envie, Revello, Costigliole Saluzzo, Verzuolo, Busca, Caraglio, Borgo S. Dalmazzo, Boves, Peveragno, Villanova Mondovì, Ceva, Lesegno, Pianfei and Magliano Alpi, for the part bordering on the municipality of Ormea.

5.   Link with the geographical area

5.1.   Specificity of the geographical area

The geographical area of production, between the Maritime and Cottian Alps which surround the Province of Cuneo from south to west, contained to the east by the high hills of the Langhe and Roero, is characterised by good fodder production, by the large quantities of milk available and by climatic conditions particularly suitable for the feeding and raising of dairy cattle breeds. The lack of winter fog and summer humidity helps ensure that the animals raised and fodder crops grown there are in excellent health. Cuneo Province is also characterised by colder and drier winters and relatively cool summers compared to the more easterly parts of the Po Valley. Thanks to these environmental factors, the ideal conditions for producing Bra cheese developed in the production area.

The breezes which blow down from the mountains in the area, in different directions, between morning and night, result in low humidity, the best conditions for maturing cheeses.

The area, on the slopes of the Alps and the hills, is a fertile plateau crossed by the rivers Po and Tanaro and by many tributaries which converge in a fan shape.

Bra is a pressed cheese which, in its Tenero and Duro varieties, has great importance both for those who produce it and for those who consume it. Thanks to the cheese-making know-how of the mountain farmers who came down into the valleys at the end of summer, for over a century this cheese, in spite of its origins in the alpine area, has become well known also in the plains for its high nutritional and cultural value. The processing, moulding and pressing of the cheese are of particular importance in the production of Bra.

5.2.   Specificity of the product

This cheese is recognisable by its rind, which in the Tenero variety is light-coloured and elastic and in the Duro form is browner, firm and in some cases oiled. When sliced the special aroma immediately becomes apparent. Bra Tenero has a delicate and inviting aroma and a remarkably mild flavour, while Bra Duro’s flavour is fuller and stronger, with sweet and salty notes. It is used in salads and baked dishes which emphasise these special qualities. Grated Bra Duro can be used in many ways in the kitchen.

5.3.   Causal link between the geographical area and the quality or characteristics of the product (for PDO) or a specific quality, the reputation or other characteristic of the product (for PGI)

The interplay of pedoclimatic and production factors is what gives Bra its particular characteristics. This is because, over centuries, an exceptional local microflora has developed, giving the cheese its specific characteristics during the maturation process, making Bra unique and recognisable among pressed cheeses.

Bra is a key part of the history and culture of Cuneo Province. The town of Bra was taken as the name for the cheese because it was the main historical market for the product. Bra cheese has maintained its characteristic aroma and flavour over time. These commercial characteristics can be attributed to the geographical production area since this is where they have been developed and passed down. Moreover, the fact that there are two forms, Tenero and Duro, is due to the cheesemakers’ ability to use very similar techniques while at the same time giving the cheese distinctive flavours depending on the specific techniques and different maturing times; in any event, the body of the cheese is compact but never dry, meaning that it can also be grated..

Reference to publication of the specification

(Article 5(7) of Regulation (EC) No 510/2006 (4))

The Ministry launched the national opposition procedure by publishing the proposal for amending ‘Bra’ PDO in Official Gazette of the Italian Republic No 51 of 1 March 2012.

The full text of the product specification is available on the following website: http://www.politicheagricole.it/flex/cm/pages/ServeBLOB.php/L/IT/IDPagina/3335

or alternatively:

by going direct to the home page of the Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policy (www.politicheagricole.it) and clicking on ‘Qualità e sicurezza’ (at the top right of the screen), and then on ‘Disciplinari di Produzione all’esame dell’UE’.

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

(2)  OJ L 93, 31.3.2006, p. 12. Replaced by Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012.

(3)  Replaced by Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012.

(4)  See footnote 3.

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| 2.7.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 205/22 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

2.7.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 205/22

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Publication of an application 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

(2014/C 205/11)

This publication confers the right to oppose the application pursuant to Article 51 of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1).

SINGLE DOCUMENT

COUNCIL REGULATION (EC) No 510/2006

on the protection of geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs (2)

‘Pecorino Crotonese’

EC No: IT-PDO-0005-01111 – 13.05.2013

PGI ( ) PDO ( X )

1.   Name

‘Pecorino Crotonese’

2.   Member State or Third Country

Italy

3.   Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

3.1.   Type of product

Class 1.3. Cheeses

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

‘Pecorino Crotonese’ protected designation of origin is a hard, semi-cooked cheese produced exclusively from whole sheep’s milk.

When released for consumption in the fresh, semi-hard and mature varieties, including when grated, it has the following physical characteristics: Shape: cylindrical with flat sides and a straight or slightly convex heel; Weight: between 0,5 kg and 5 kg; cheeses that are matured for more than six months may weigh as much as 10 kg; Dimensions: the dimensions vary according to the weight of the cheese; for cheeses weighing between 0,5 kg and 5 kg, the height of the heel varies between 6 cm and 15 cm and the diameter of the sides between 10 cm and 20 cm; for cheeses weighing more than 5 kg, the height of the heel varies between 15 cm and 20 cm and the diameter between 20 cm and 30 cm.

The fat in dry matter must be at least 40 %, the protein content must be at least 25 %, the moisture content must be at least 30 %, and basket marks are visible on the cheese wheels.

‘Pecorino Crotonese Fresco’ (‘Fresh Pecorino Crotonese’): white or lightly straw-coloured rind. Distinct, smooth and slightly tangy flavour with thin rind. The distinctive basket marks are clearly visible. The body of the cheese is soft, regular and creamy; it is milky white in colour with only a small number of eyes.

‘Pecorino Crotonese Semiduro’ (‘Semi-hard Pecorino Crotonese’): thick, light brown rind. Intense, well-balanced flavour. The body of the cheese is firm with only a small number of eyes.

‘Pecorino Crotonese Stagionato’ (‘Mature Pecorino Crotonese’) after a long maturing period (more than six months): hard, brown rind; may be coated (treated) with olive oil or olive dregs. Intense, distinct flavour, with a very slight piquant aftertaste. The body of the cheese is slightly straw-coloured with only a small number of eyes.

Organoleptic characteristics: when being tasted just after cutting, the cheese gives off a light scent of sheep’s milk, mixed harmoniously with other scents typical of the cheese, such as hay, mature wild grasses, hazelnut and smoke.

3.3.   Raw materials (for processed products only)

Milk: whole raw sheep’s milk, thermised or pasteurised in accordance with the provisions in force.

Rennet: kid rennet paste.

The development of natural lactic acid starter cultures present in the milk used to make the cheese is allowed, as is the use of natural whey starters and milk starters originating from or present in the production area.

Salt: (NaCl) rock salt.

3.4.   Feed (for products of animal origin only)

The year-round basic ration is made up essentially of fodder/forage from the geographical area. The livestock whose milk is used generally graze on green forage and are fed on non-fermented farm hay grown in the area. The ration may be supplemented with GMO-free concentrates from outside the geographical area, particularly on winter days when the sheep cannot graze. Supplements may not exceed 40 % of the total over the course of the year. The animals are reared semi-wild: flocks are left free to graze before returning to the fold in the evening, but the animals are supervised, vaccinated and treated if necessary. Flocks are on pasture from September until June.

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

Livestock rearing, milk production, cheese-making and maturing.

3.6.   Specific rules concerning slicing, grating, packaging, etc.

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3.7.   Specific rules concerning labelling

‘Pecorino Crotonese’ PDO is marketed whole or in portions in compliance with the provisions in force. The label affixed to ‘Pecorino Crotonese’ cheeses includes not only the information required by law but also the following additional images and wordings: The ‘Pecorino Crotonese’ logo, followed by the words ‘Denominazione di Origine Protetta’ (‘Protected Designation of Origin’) or the acronym ‘D.O.P.’ (‘PDO’), the Union symbols and possibly a reference to the EU Regulation; the business name and address of the producer and/or packager. Where the product is intended for international markets, the words ‘Protected Designation of Origin’ and the Community logo may be used in the language of the target country. The logo of the product comprises two fields: the graphic logo on the left and the logo lettering on the right. The logo must be imprinted onto the cheeses by fire branding or die stamping, while the lettering must be imprinted on the heel.

4.   Concise definition of the geographical area

The area where the cheese is produced and matured comprises the entire administrative territory of the following municipalities in the Province of Crotone: Belvedere Spinello, Caccuri, Carfizzi, Casabona, Castelsilano, Cerenzia, Cirò, Cirò Marina, Cotronei, Crotone, Crucoli, Cutro, Isola di Capo Rizzuto, Melissa, Mesoraca, Pallagorio, Petilia Policastro, Rocca di Neto, Roccabernarda, San Mauro Marchesato, San Nicola Dell’Alto, Santa Severina, Savelli, Scandale, Strongoli, Umbriatico and Verzino; the entire administrative territory of the following municipalities in the Province of Catanzaro: Andali, Belcastro, Botricello, Cerva, Cropani, Marcedusa, Petronà, Sellia, Sersale, Simeri Crichi, Soveria Simeri and Zagarise; and the entire administrative territory of the following municipalities in the Province of Cosenza: Bocchigliero, Calopezzati, Caloveto, Campana, Cariati, Cropalati, Crosia, Mandatoriccio, Crosia, Paludi, Pietrapaola e San Giovanni in Fiore, Scala Coeli and Terravecchia.

5.   Link with the geographical area

5.1.   Specificity of the geographical area

The geographical area of production is a homogeneous area in both geographical and historical/cultural terms and largely overlaps with the territory of the Marquessate of Crotone, as the area in question was known from 1390 AD onwards.

The production area is characterised by the local hills of pliocene clay that are typical of the Province of Crotone and the mountainous area adjoining that Province between the Sila Piccola and the Sila Grande. In terms of physical geography, this area is very closely interconnected, with the Sila plateaus largely serving as the natural summer pastures for the flocks kept in the hills between those mountains and the Ionian Sea. This specific configuration of the land has influenced the local climate, which is characterised by cold winters and hot summers, but relatively small daily temperature ranges. Humidity levels are even, with average relative humidity of 58 %.

The ‘Pecorino Crotonese’ production area counts 398 sheep holdings, with a total of around 49 000 sheep. This figure has increased by around 4 % over the last 10 years, going against the general trend for sheep numbers in Italy.

The rearing system used is semi-wild grazing, combined with seasonal movement to and from mountain pastures. The production area has a great deal of pastures (over 40 % of the UAA is given over to pasture and permanent grassland), on which grow plant families that are considered to be of little interest for livestock, or even to be weeds, but which are present in abundance in the marginal areas typical of the production area. The pasture land in the production area is sufficiently homogeneous. The flora of the natural pastures in the Marquessate is essentially made up of fresh plant species — such as darnel, clover, chicory, sulla and alfalfa — of local ecotypes.

In the area, the profession of master cheese-maker is considered prestigious and testifies to a long-standing, historically documented tradition. What is more, the use of family labour in cheese-making has made it possible for the associated techniques to be kept unchanged over time. Cheese-makers’ know-how is an important element of the product’s specificity — indeed, production is carried out by hand. It is of prime importance that cheese-makers know how to identify the right point of coagulation of the milk in order to break up the curds with a local implement known as the ‘miscu’, reducing them to the size of rice grains. The shape of this tool allows the curds to be broken up in an energetic manner that frees a great deal of fat, to such an extent that the residual whey has a milky appearance. This whey is known locally as ‘lacciata’ and is a sign that the curds have been worked correctly. Another very important step is the agitation of the curds in order to help drain off whey (a process known as ‘frugatura’) and manual pressing of the curds into basket moulds. The curds are then agitated again and turned over to be pressed again into the baskets, before finally being immersed in the ‘lacciata’ whey. The cheese is left to acidify for one or more days before maturing is begun. As the cheese matures, some typical moulds develop on its surface. The cheese-maker monitors this process and has to know how to recognise and thus select the cheeses that have been correctly produced and discard the others. As the cheese matures, it is also important to assess the right moment to turn, brush or wash the cheeses and coat them with olive oil or olive dregs.

5.2.   Specificity of the product

The distinctive features of ‘Pecronio Crotonese’ are:

| — | a light scent of sheep’s milk, mixed harmoniously with other scents typical of the cheese, such as hay, mature wild grasses, hazelnut and smoke; none of these scents predominates or, at most, the sheepy scent predominates slightly, |
| --- | --- |

—

a light scent of sheep’s milk, mixed harmoniously with other scents typical of the cheese, such as hay, mature wild grasses, hazelnut and smoke; none of these scents predominates or, at most, the sheepy scent predominates slightly,

| — | compact flesh with only a small number of eyes. The cheese has very little elasticity in its texture in the mouth; during chewing, the granular nature of the cheese can be felt, with the granules melting nicely in the mouth after appropriate chewing. The presence of fat can be perceived, but without any buttery sensation. Body temperature and the act of chewing give the same aromatic impression as that produced by cutting the cheese, but in a more complete and marked form, particularly on swallowing. At this point the typical flavour floods the mouth, remaining pleasantly on the palate for a long time, |
| --- | --- |

—

compact flesh with only a small number of eyes. The cheese has very little elasticity in its texture in the mouth; during chewing, the granular nature of the cheese can be felt, with the granules melting nicely in the mouth after appropriate chewing. The presence of fat can be perceived, but without any buttery sensation. Body temperature and the act of chewing give the same aromatic impression as that produced by cutting the cheese, but in a more complete and marked form, particularly on swallowing. At this point the typical flavour floods the mouth, remaining pleasantly on the palate for a long time,

| — | evident basket marks on the cheese wheel. |
| --- | --- |

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evident basket marks on the cheese wheel.

5.3.   Causal link between the geographical area and the quality or characteristics of the product (for PDO) or a specific quality, the reputation or other characteristic of the product (for PGI)

| — | The distinctive nature of the semi-wild rearing system means that the livestock are fed mainly on wild flora from the production area. The distinctive flavours in ‘Pecorino Crotonese’ result from specific components, such as terpenes and sesquiterpenes, which are present in appreciable quantities only in some plant families, such as Poaceae, Brassicaceae, Apiaceae, Asteraceae and others normally grazed upon by the sheep. In forage crops, by contrast, such compounds are present to a low or very low extent. As they are highly aromatic and linked to certain specific plants, their presence in the cheese reflects the area where the animals grazed. It is thus the wild microflora that determines the organoleptic characteristics of ‘Pecorino Crotonese’. What is more, the traditional practice of mountain grazing allows the sheep to be protected from environmental and nutritional stresses during the heat of summer, thereby allowing the milk to maintain its flavour components. |
| --- | --- |

—

The distinctive nature of the semi-wild rearing system means that the livestock are fed mainly on wild flora from the production area. The distinctive flavours in ‘Pecorino Crotonese’ result from specific components, such as terpenes and sesquiterpenes, which are present in appreciable quantities only in some plant families, such as Poaceae, Brassicaceae, Apiaceae, Asteraceae and others normally grazed upon by the sheep. In forage crops, by contrast, such compounds are present to a low or very low extent. As they are highly aromatic and linked to certain specific plants, their presence in the cheese reflects the area where the animals grazed. It is thus the wild microflora that determines the organoleptic characteristics of ‘Pecorino Crotonese’. What is more, the traditional practice of mountain grazing allows the sheep to be protected from environmental and nutritional stresses during the heat of summer, thereby allowing the milk to maintain its flavour components.

| — | The area’s climate has a decisive impact on the maturing process and helps give ‘Pecorino Crotonese’ its typical structure. Over the centuries, the humidity level that characterises the area has helped shape the maturing techniques and is an important environmental resource for the cheese maturing process. In order for the cheese to mature correctly, the humidity level must be neither too high, as this would create the risk of the cheese not drying correctly, nor too variable, so as to ensure uniform conditions during the entire maturing period. The fact that humidity levels are even on the whole means that ‘Pecorino Crotonese’ matures gradually. This gives the cheese its distinctive physical structure, such as its firmness and lack of eyes. |
| --- | --- |

—

The area’s climate has a decisive impact on the maturing process and helps give ‘Pecorino Crotonese’ its typical structure. Over the centuries, the humidity level that characterises the area has helped shape the maturing techniques and is an important environmental resource for the cheese maturing process. In order for the cheese to mature correctly, the humidity level must be neither too high, as this would create the risk of the cheese not drying correctly, nor too variable, so as to ensure uniform conditions during the entire maturing period. The fact that humidity levels are even on the whole means that ‘Pecorino Crotonese’ matures gradually. This gives the cheese its distinctive physical structure, such as its firmness and lack of eyes.

| — | The inextricable link with the area’s human resources, which is determined by the cheese-making technique that stems from the centuries-old local tradition of master foremen/cheese-makers, has made it possible for the Crotone area’s renown in milk processing to remain unchanged. The fact that family labour is used almost exclusively not only guarantees the continuity of traditional techniques, but also testifies to the highly-specialised nature and craftsmanship of the production system, which remains inextricably linked to human resources that cannot be found in other local contexts. The specialist skills are particularly crucial at the stages in the process that are carried out by hand: from curdling to placing in moulds to treatment and monitoring of the cheese as it matures. |
| --- | --- |

—

The inextricable link with the area’s human resources, which is determined by the cheese-making technique that stems from the centuries-old local tradition of master foremen/cheese-makers, has made it possible for the Crotone area’s renown in milk processing to remain unchanged. The fact that family labour is used almost exclusively not only guarantees the continuity of traditional techniques, but also testifies to the highly-specialised nature and craftsmanship of the production system, which remains inextricably linked to human resources that cannot be found in other local contexts. The specialist skills are particularly crucial at the stages in the process that are carried out by hand: from curdling to placing in moulds to treatment and monitoring of the cheese as it matures.

| — | The use of natural whey starters and milk starters that originate from and exist in the production area creates an important microbiological link with the area. A whey starter deriving from local milk ensures that the cheese contains lactic acid bacteria that are typical of the area of origin, thereby helping to give the cheese its specificity. |
| --- | --- |

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The use of natural whey starters and milk starters that originate from and exist in the production area creates an important microbiological link with the area. A whey starter deriving from local milk ensures that the cheese contains lactic acid bacteria that are typical of the area of origin, thereby helping to give the cheese its specificity.

‘Pecorino Crotonese’ cheese is an integral part of the rural space making up the production area: it can be traced back a very long time, even to before the medieval period, and documents proving exports date back as far as the 16th century. During the Austrian Vice-Regency (1707-34), cheese was exported on a massive scale. In early January 1712 in Naples, the clergyman Giacinto Tassone of Cutro sold the Neapolitan merchant Aniello Montagna ‘200 cantara of Cotrone cheese from the current season of this year, neither swollen, worm-eaten, broken nor cracked’. During the last 25 years too, the name has been in continuous use on product labels and by an organisation of local breeders, and there have been numerous attempts at imitation by producers from areas outside the region.

Reference to publication of the specification

(Article 5(7) of Regulation (EC) No 510/2006 (3))

The Ministry launched the national objection procedure with the publication of the proposal for ‘Pecorino Crotonese’ PDO in Official Gazette of the Italian Republic No 46 of 23 February 2012.

The full text of the product specification is available on the following website: http://www.politicheagricole.it/flex/cm/pages/ServeBLOB.php/L/IT/IDPagina/3335

or alternatively:

by going directly to the homepage of the Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policy (www.politicheagricole.it) and clicking on ‘Qualità e sicurezza’ (at the top right-hand side of the screen) and finally by clicking on ‘Disciplinari di Produzione all’esame dell’UE’.

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

(2)  OJ L 93, 31.3.2006, p. 12. Replaced by Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012.

(3)  See footnote 2.

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