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 41/13)

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

‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’

EU No: PGI-IT-1535-AM02 – 15.9.2020

PDO ( ) PGI (X)

1. Applicant group and legitimate interest

Consorzio di Tutela Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna I.G.P. [Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna PGI Protection Association] Via Béla Bartók 29/G 44124 – Ferrara

Tel. +39 0532904511

Fax +39 0532904521

Certified e-mail: consorziopesca@registerpec.it

The Consorzio di Tutela Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna I.G.P. is entitled to submit an amendment application pursuant to Article 13(1) of Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policy Decree No 12511 of 14 October 2013.

2. Member State or Third Country

Italy

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

☐ Name of product

☒ Description of product

☒ Geographical area

☒ Proof of origin

☒ Method of production

☒ Link

☒ Labelling

☒ Other [Checks; Order and titles of the articles]

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 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)

Description of product

The following list of varieties in Article 2(1) of the specification:

‘“Pesca di Romagna” Yellow-fleshed varieties: Maycrest, Spring Lady, Sprinbelle, Springcrest, Suncrest, Royal Glory, Royal Gem, Dixired, Flavorcrest, Glohaven, Merril Gem Free 1, Redhaven, Royal Majestic, Royal Time, Rich Lady, Maria Marta, Summer Rich, Grenat, Elegant Lady, Fayette, Royal Summer, Royal Lee, Royal Pride, Romestar, Symphonie, Mercil (or O’Henry), Zainori (or Kaweat); White-fleshed varieties: Iris Rosso, Maria Bianca, Tendresse (or Joulie), Duchessa d’Este, Rossa di San Carlo, Zaidaso (or Kewina).’

and

‘“Nettarina di Romagna” Yellow-fleshed varieties: Early Sungrand, Maygrand, Laura, Ambra, Maillara (or Big Ben), Nectaprima, Noracila, Flavortop, Indipendence, Maria Emilia, Maria Laura, Spring Red, Weimberger, Big Top (or Zaitabo), Guerriera, Alitop, Honey Blaze, Romagna Big, Fantasia, Maria Aurelia, Nectaross, Stark Red Gold, Venus, Sweet Red, Sweet Lady, Morsiani 90, Honey Royal, Honety Glo’, Romagna Gold; White-fleshed varieties: Silver King, Caldesi 2000, Nectarmagie, Silver Giant, Maillarmagic, Necta Perle, Romagna 3000, Romagna Red.’

has been amended as follows:

‘Peach: Early yellow-fleshed varieties: Bordò, Coraline (or Monco), Crimson Lady, Dixired, Flavorcrest, Maycrest, Merril Gem Free 1, Rich May, Royal Gem, Royal Glory, Royal Majestic, Royal Time, Ruby Rich, Sagittaria, Spring Lady, Sprinbelle, Springcrest, Sugar Time; Medium-late yellow-fleshed varieties: Azurite, Corindon, Diamond Princess, Elegant Lady, Fayette, Glohaven, Grenat, Maria Marta, Mercil (or O’Henry), Plusplus, Redhaven, Rich Lady, Rome Star, Royal Estate, Royal Jim, Royal Lee, Royal Pride, Royal Summer, Royal Sweet, Summer Rich, Suncrest, Sweet Dream, Sweet Henry, Symphonie, Vista Rich, Zainori (or Kaweah), Zee Lady; Early white-fleshed varieties: Greta, Iris Rosso, Monsolle, Patty; Medium-late white-fleshed varieties: Duchessa d’Este, Ivory Sun, Maria Bianca, Maura, Regalsnow (or Maperla), Rosa del West, Rossa di San Carlo, Star Princess, Snow Lady, Tendresse (or Joulie), Zaidaso (or Kewina). Nectarine: Early yellow-fleshed varieties: Alice, Ambra, Ara, Big Haven, Carene, Early Sungrand, Extreme Beauty, Gartairo, Garofa, Laura, Maillara (or Big Bang), Maria Emilia, Maygrand, Nectaprima, Noracila, Rebus 028, Weimberger; Medium-late yellow-fleshed varieties: Alma, Alma 2, Alexa, Amiga, Alitop, August Red, Big Top (or Zaitabo), Diamond Ray, Dorabelle, Doracile, Dulcis, Dulciva, Early Zee, Fairlane, Fantasia, Febe, Flavortop, Gea, Guerriera, Honey Blaze, Honey Glo, Honey Kist, Honey Royale, Indipendence, Lady Erika, Late Fair, Luciana, Maria Aurelia, Maria Carla, Maria Laura, Max, Max 7, Monrené, Morsiani 60, Morsiani 90, Nectareine, Nectaross, Orine, Orion, Pit Lane, Pit Stop, Red Fair, Romagna Big, Romagna Giant, Romagna Gold, Romagna Lady, Romagna Queen, Romagna Summer, September Bright, Spring Red, Stark Red Gold, Sweet Lady, Sweet Red, Venus, Western Red; Early white-fleshed varieties: Caldesi 2000, Garcica, Romagna Red, Romagna Star, Silver King, Turquoise; Medium-late white-fleshed varieties: Caldesi 2020, Maillarmagie (or Magique), Majestic Pearl, Nectarmagie, Nectaperle, Romagna 3000, Romagna Bright, Romagna Sweet, Romagna Top, Silver Giant, Silver Star, Sandine, Tourmaline, Zephyr.’

The amendment involves updating and expanding the range of varieties that can be used. It is due to the high degree and speed of varietal renewal in the sector as well as the need to ensure the availability of the PGI product. New cultivars have thus been added, very often deriving from past or old cultivars. Expanding the range of varieties will also allow the harvesting period to be extended, meaning that there will be greater availability of the product for consumers and it will be available for a longer period than is currently the case.

This amendment applies to point 4.2 of the summary and the corresponding point 3.2 of the single document.

The following paragraph has been added to Article 2 of the product specification:

‘For the production of “Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna”, it is permitted to use other peach cultivars derived from varietal research provided that it is demonstrated by means of experimental and documentary evidence that the method of obtaining the product and the quality characteristics of the fruit are consistent with this product specification. The use of such cultivars for the production of “Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna” must be notified in advance to and be evaluated by the Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policy, which may to that end request the technical opinion of the control body or another body.’

We are requesting this amendment in order to meet the future needs of producers as regards introducing new varieties resulting from scientific research, and in order to ensure that the original characteristics of ‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’ continue to be complied with, taking into account the speed of varietal renewal that characterises this species.

This amendment applies to point 4.2 of the summary and the corresponding point 3.2 of the single document.

In Article 6(1) of the specification, the following text on the characteristics of the fruit:

‘When released for consumption, “Pesca di Romagna” must have the following characteristics: Yellow-fleshed cultivars Size: minimum diameter of 67 mm, which corresponds to a circumference of 21 cm; Sugar content: (° Bx) minimum of 11; Epicarp, shape and average weight in accordance with the characteristics of the cultivars concerned. White-fleshed cultivars Size: minimum diameter of 67 mm, which corresponds to a circumference of 21 cm; Sugar content: (° Bx) minimum of 11; Epicarp, shape and average weight in accordance with the characteristics of the cultivars concerned.’

and

‘When released for consumption, “Nettarina di Romagna” must have the following characteristics:

a) Yellow-fleshed cultivars Epicarp: glabrous; Size: minimum diameter of 67 mm, which corresponds to a circumference of 21 cm; Sugar content: (° Bx) minimum of 11; Flavour, shape and minimum average weight in accordance with the characteristics of the cultivars concerned.

b) White-fleshed cultivars Epicarp: glabrous; Size: minimum diameter of 67 mm, which corresponds to a circumference of 21 cm; Sugar content: (° Bx) minimum of 11; Flavour, shape and minimum average weight in accordance with the characteristics of the cultivars concerned.’

has been merged as follows and moved to Article 2 of the specification:

‘Quality characteristics

When released for consumption, “Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna” must have the following characteristics:

Early yellow-fleshed and white-fleshed cultivars

— Minimum size A: minimum diameter of 67 mm, which corresponds to a minimum weight of 135 g;

— Sugar content: (° Bx) minimum of 9,5;

— Epicarp and shape in accordance with the characteristics of the cultivars concerned.

Medium-late yellow-fleshed and white-fleshed cultivars

— Minimum size A: minimum diameter of 67 mm, which corresponds to a minimum weight of 135 g;

— Sugar content: (° Bx) minimum of 11;

— Epicarp and shape in accordance with the characteristics of the cultivars concerned.’

In order to better structure the text, it was considered appropriate to differentiate between early and medium-late cultivars. This distinction affects the sugar content parameter, which, in the early cultivars, which are harvested earlier, does not achieve the level of the medium-late cultivars. The parameter relating to the minimum weight of the fruit, which corresponds to the other size parameters already included in the specification, as indicated by current marketing standards, has also been stated in order to specify the minimum sizes more precisely. Finally, all the parameters setting the quality characteristics have been moved from Article 6 to Article 2 of the specification, so that all the characteristics of the product are listed in the same article.

This amendment applies to point 4.2 of the summary and the corresponding point 3.2 of the single document.

The following text has been added in Article 2 of the specification:

‘The fruit may also be used for processing. Furthermore, and exclusively in the case of processing, it is possible to use also fruit that meets all the requirements of the product specification except those relating to size and shape. Slight superficial damage to the skin is also permitted, provided that such damage does not affect the quality and the shelf-life of the fruit. Such fruit may not be sold to the end consumer.’

This amendment will make it possible to process also fruit which is defective only in size or shape, despite having been produced and grown in accordance with all the provisions laid down in the specification. However, processing fruit which is not healthy and does not comply with the product specification will be prohibited.

This amendment applies to point 4.2 of the summary and the corresponding point 3.2 of the single document.

Geographical area

In Article 3 of the specification, the following text on the production area:

‘The production area of “Pesca di Romagna” covers the part of the Emilia-Romagna Region suitable for growing peaches and is made up as follows:

1) The following municipalities in the province of Ferrara: Argenta, Cento, Codigoro, Massa Fiscaglia, Poggio Renatico, Portomaggiore, S. Agostino, Tresigallo, Voghiera;

2) The following municipalities in the province of Bologna: Borgo Tossignano, Budrio, Casalfiumanese, Castelguelfo, Castenaso, Fontanelice, Granarolo dell’Emilia, Imola, Medicina, Minerbio, Molinella, Mordano;

3) The following municipalities in the province of Forlì: Bertinoro, Castrocaro Terme, Cesena, Cesenatico Dovadola, Forlì, Forlimpopoli, Gambettola, Gatteo, Longiano, Meldola, Mercato Saraceno, Modigliaria, Montiano, Predappio, Roncofreddo, Sant’Arcangelo, Savignano sul Rubicone;

4) The following municipalities in the province of Ravenna: Alfonsine, Bagnacavallo, Bagnara di Romagna, Brisignella, Casola Valsenio, Castelbolognese, Cervia, Conselice, Cotignola, Faenza, Fusignano, Lugo, Massalombarda, Ravenna, Riolo Terme, Russi, S.Agata sul Santerno, Solarolo.’

and

‘The production area of “Nettarina di Romagna” covers the part of the Emilia-Romagna Region suitable for growing peaches and is made up as follows:

1) The following municipalities in the province of Ferrara: Argenta, Cento, Codigoro, Massa Fiscaglia, Poggio Renatico, Portomaggiore, S. Agostino, Tresigallo, Voghiera;

2) The following municipalities in the province of Bologna: Borgo Tossignano, Budrio, Casalfiumanese, Castelguelfo, Castenaso, Fontanelice, Granarolo dell’Emilia, Imola, Medicina, Minerbio, Molinella, Mordano;

3) The following municipalities in the province of Forlì: Bertinoro, Castrocaro Terme, Cesena, Cesenatico Dovadola, Forlì, Forlimpopoli, Gambettola, Gatteo, Longiano, Meldola, Mercato Saraceno, Modigliaria, Montiano, Predappio, Roncofreddo, Sant’Arcangelo, Savignano sul Rubicone;

4) The following municipalities in the province of Ravenna: Alfonsine, Bagnacavallo, Bagnara di Romagna, Brisignella, Casola Valsenio, Castelbolognese, Cervia, Conselice, Cotignola, Faenza, Fusignano, Lugo, Massalombarda, Ravenna, Riolo Terme, Russi, S.Agata sul Santerno, Solarolo.’

has been corrected and supplemented as follows:

‘Article 3 Production area The production area of “Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna” covers the part of the Emilia-Romagna Region suitable for growing peaches and is made up as follows: 1) The following municipalities in the province of Ferrara: Argenta, Cento, Codigoro, Copparo, Ferrara Fiscaglia – loc. Massa Fiscaglia, Poggio Renatico, Portomaggiore, Terre del Reno – loc. S. Agostino, Tresignana – loc. Tresigallo, Voghiera. 2) The following municipalities in the province of Bologna: Borgo Tossignano, Budrio, Casalfiumanese, Castel Guelfo di Bologna, Castenaso, Fontanelice, Granarolo dell’Emilia, Imola, Medicina, Minerbio, Molinella, Mordano. 3) The following municipalities in the province of Forlì-Cesena: Bertinoro, Castrocaro Terme e Terra del Sole, Cesena, Cesenatico, Dovadola, Forlì, Forlimpopoli, Gambettola, Gatteo, Longiano, Meldola, Mercato Saraceno, Modigliana, Montiano, Predappio, Roncofreddo, Savignano sul Rubicone. 4) The following municipalities in the province of Ravenna: Alfonsine, Bagnacavallo, Bagnara di Romagna, Brisighella, Casola Valsenio, Castel Bolognese, Cervia, Conselice, Cotignola, Faenza, Fusignano, Lugo, Massa Lombarda, Ravenna, Riolo Terme, Russi, Sant’Agata sul Santerno, Solarolo. 5) The following municipalities in the province of Rimini: Santarcangelo di Romagna.’

The amendments are necessary in order to correct clerical errors, update some of the place names and add new municipalities, as described below.

The names of the municipalities of Massa Fiscaglia, S. Agostino and Tresigallo have been replaced by their new names, Fiscaglia – loc. Massa Fiscaglia, Terre del Reno – loc. S. Agostino, and Tresignana – loc. Tresigallo, respectively.

These updates are necessary in order to reflect changes which came about following the mergers that occurred between January 2014 and January 2019. They do not change the overall area of origin.

The name ‘province of Forlì’ has been replaced by ‘province of Forlì-Cesena’ as the province was renamed pursuant to Legislative Decree No 252 of 6 March 1992.

The municipality of Santarcangelo di Romagna, which was still shown as part of the province of Forlì, has now been listed under the province of Rimini, which was established by the above-mentioned Legislative Decree No 252/1992.

Finally, the names of the municipalities of Castelguelfo, Castrocaro Terme, Modigliaria, Brisignella, Castelbolognese, Massalombarda and S. Agata sul Santerno have been replaced by the correct names: Castel Guelfo di Bologna, Castrocaro Terme e Terra del Sole, Modigliana, Brisighella, Castel Bolognese, Massa Lombarda and Sant’Agata sul Santerno, respectively.

Some clerical errors in the specification have thus been corrected without changing the area of origin.

The municipalities of Ferrara and Copparo in the province of Ferrara have been added to the area of origin.

This is in order to create a continuous geographical production area. The municipalities of Ferrara and Copparo are adjacent to and bordering the municipalities already covered by the product specification, but above all they have a long and proud tradition of growing peaches and nectarines, which has historically been carried out there. As they are next to the areas already covered, they are homogeneous both as regards environmental characteristics and growing techniques.

This amendment applies to point 4.3 of the summary and the corresponding point 4 of the single document.

Proof of origin

Updating the procedure for establishing proof of origin

The following paragraphs, concerning ‘Pesca di Romagna’ and ‘Nettarina di Romagna’ respectively, in Article 5 of the specification:

‘The Emilia-Romagna Region is responsible for checking that the technical conditions established in Article 4 are met. Peach orchards suitable for producing “Pesca di Romagna” are entered in the appropriate register, which is set up, updated and published annually. A copy of this register is lodged with each of the municipalities located within the production area. The Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Resources indicates the procedures to follow in relation to registration, reporting of annual production and obtaining the corresponding certification, in order to ensure proper and appropriate monitoring of annually recognised production marketed under the geographical indication.’

and

‘The Emilia-Romagna Region is responsible for checking that the technical conditions established in Article 4 are met. Peach orchards suitable for producing “Nettarina di Romagna” are entered in the appropriate register, which is set up, updated and published annually. A copy of this register is lodged with each of the municipalities located within the production area. The Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Resources indicates the procedures to follow in relation to registration, reporting of annual production and obtaining the corresponding certification, in order to ensure proper and appropriate monitoring of annually recognised production marketed under the geographical indication.’

have been deleted and replaced by the following text in Article 4 of the specification:

‘Article 4 Proof of origin Each stage in the production process is monitored, with all inputs and outputs being recorded. The traceability of the product is thus guaranteed by entering the cadastral parcels on which the product is grown, as well as details of the producers and packers, in lists managed by the control body referred to in Article 7, and by declaring to the control body the quantities produced. All natural and legal persons entered in the relevant lists are subject to checks by the control body, according to the terms of the product specification and the corresponding control plan.’

This amendment is necessary in order to bring the text into line with current control systems, as the description in the current version refers to methodologies and tools that no longer exist. It has been updated both in terms of numbering – now Article 4 of the specification – and in terms of content on the basis of Regulation (EU) No 1152/2012. Checks on compliance with the product specification are in fact verified by a control body designated by the Ministry and not by the regional authorities. This amendment does not affect the single document.

Production method

The amendments to the production method concern both peaches and nectarines.

The reference is to Article 4 of the current specification, which becomes Article 5 with the new numbering.

The new Article 5 of the specification – Method of obtaining the product has been divided into two sections:

5.1 Soil and climate conditions and 5.2 Growing techniques.

Set out in this way, the article describes the technical steps more precisely.

The following sentence in Article 4 of the specification:

‘The use of irrigation, fertilisation practices and other growing and agronomic techniques must comply with the technical arrangements laid down by the competent services of the Emilia-Romagna Region.’

has been deleted.

This is actually a prerequisite that all holdings must meet. In fact, regulatory developments and the binding nature of certain requirements mean that certain criteria are inevitably complied with. It is therefore considered unnecessary to indicate it in the specification.

With regard to growing techniques, the following text:

‘The planting distances allowed are those generally used, with a maximum density of 2 000 plants per hectare possible for new plantations. The standard training methods permitted can be traced back to the “Emilian vase” and variations thereof; the espalier methods that can be used are the fan, the “Y”, the spindle and variations thereof.’

has been reworded as follows:

‘The planting distances allowed are those generally used, with a maximum density of 2 000 plants per hectare possible. The standard training methods permitted can be traced back to the Emilian vase, the delayed vase and variations thereof; the espalier methods that can be used are the fan, the “Y”, the spindle and variations thereof.’

The specific reference to new plantations has been deleted as it is superfluous. For the sake of completeness, also the delayed vase training method has been specified, although all training methods are already permitted.

The following sentence in Article 4 of the specification:

‘The growing techniques must include at least a winter pruning and prunings in the growing season depending on the requirements of the plants.’

has been deleted.

The part about pruning has been deleted as this is a prerequisite. Since good agricultural practices are used in all the various contexts, it was considered that there was no need to further specify this by adding unnecessary additional information.

With regard to yields, the following sentence:

‘Maximum production per hectare is 35 000 kg for all allowed cultivars.’

has been replaced by the following new version:

‘Maximum production per hectare for early varieties is 35 000 kg for all allowed cultivars. Maximum production per hectare for medium-late varieties is 50 000 kg for all allowed cultivars.’

As regards maximum production, it was considered appropriate to distinguish between early and medium-late varieties. For the early varieties, production has remained unchanged at 35 000 kg per hectare.

Maximum production has therefore been added for the medium-late varieties, set at 50 000 kg per hectare. Using the planting methods already provided for in the specification, such as the spindle, it is easy to reach production of 50 000 kg per hectare. These quantities will not affect the quality aspects of the fruit in any way; a maximum limit has been set to protect this very aspect.

The following sentence in Article 4 of the specification:

‘Taking into account seasonal developments and environmental growing conditions, the Emilia-Romagna Region sets, every year by 15 May, the indicative average unit production within the above limit for each cultivar specified in Article 2.’

has been deleted.

As regards the competence of the Emilia-Romagna Region to set the indicative average production, please note that, despite having the option to apply this clause, the Region has never deemed it appropriate or necessary. Therefore, the indicative average unit production has never been formally set in advance. In the light of the above, and given that the value has never been set in advance, this clause has proved to be superfluous and it is therefore considered appropriate to delete it from the specification.

The following paragraphs of Article 4 of the specification, concerning ‘Pesca di Romagna’ and ‘Nettarina di Romagna’ respectively:

‘If storing fruit that can be designated with the “Pesca di Romagna” PGI, the technique of refrigeration must be used. The values for humidity and temperature inside the cold stores must ensure that the specific quality characteristics are maintained.’

and

‘If storing fruit that can be designated with the “Nettarina di Romagna” PGI, the technique of refrigeration must be used. The values for humidity and temperature inside the cold stores must ensure that the specific quality characteristics are maintained.’

have been combined and adjusted as follows:

‘If storing fruit that can be designated with the “Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna” PGI, the technique of refrigeration must be used. The values for humidity and temperature inside the cold stores must ensure that the specific quality characteristics are maintained.’

Furthermore, this sentence has been moved to Article 8 of the specification.

This amendment affects point 4.5 of the summary and the above sentence has been inserted in point 3.5 of the single document.

Link

The current paragraph on the link, contained in point 4.6 of the summary, is as follows:

‘Features of the soil and climate and the skills of the growers in the production area result in peaches and nectarines with special physical, chemical and organoleptic qualities which are sold on the national and European market as typical produce of Emilia-Romagna. The production area has a typical plains climate but is influenced by the proximity of the Adriatic Sea. The production area is the part of the region which has the highest average temperature, with almost no spring frosts which could damage the fruit. The importance of the production of “Pesca di Romagna” and “Nettarina di Romagna” is linked not only to objective and optimum soil and climate conditions but also to the social and productive fabric of the area, capable of utilising those resources and turning to account the fruits of the earth and labour. In the area where “Pesca di Romagna” and “Nettarina di Romagna” are grown, there are many producers’ associations, which, thanks to their organisational capacity, have set up product collection centres in the area using cutting-edge technology. The area is so suitable for the production of peaches and nectarines that it accounts for approximately one quarter of total production of the fruit in Italy.’

It has been added to Article 6 of the product specification and reworded as follows:

‘Features of the soil and climate and the skills of the growers in the production area result in peaches and nectarines with special physical, chemical and organoleptic qualities which are sold on the national and European market as typical produce of Emilia-Romagna. The production area has a typical plains climate but is influenced by the proximity of the Adriatic Sea. The production area is the part of the region which has the highest average temperature, with almost no spring frosts which could damage the fruit. The importance of the production of “Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna” is linked not only to objective and optimum soil and climate conditions but also to the social and productive fabric of the area, capable of utilising those resources and turning to account the fruits of the earth and labour. In the area where “Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna” is grown, there are many producers’ associations, which, thanks to their organisational capacity, have set up product collection centres in the area using cutting-edge technology. It is also thanks to the presence of such producer organisations and their organisational capacity that producers have been voluntarily applying integrated production techniques throughout the area for many years. Environmentally friendly and mindful of consumer health, these now constitute the usual production method, contributing to the environmental sustainability of fruit production. The area is so suitable for the production of peaches and nectarines that it accounts for approximately one quarter of total production of the fruit in Italy.’

The purpose of this amendment is to explain in more detail how the operators’ professionalism affects the end product. These are therefore changes to the wording that do not affect the substance of the link.

This amendment applies to Article 6 of the specification, point 4.6 of the summary and point 5 of the single document.

Labelling

Article 8 of the specification has been divided into three sections, relating to storage, packaging and labelling, with a view to clarifying the various post-harvest stages.

Storage

The paragraph describing the storage arrangements, previously in Article 4 of the specification, has been moved, with only the name changed, to this article:

‘8.1. Storage If storing fruit that can be designated with the “Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna” PGI, the technique of refrigeration must be used. The values for humidity and temperature inside the cold stores must ensure that the specific quality characteristics are maintained.’

This amendment affects point 4.5 of the summary and the above sentence has been inserted in point 3.5 of the single document.

Packaging

The methods of packaging have been reworded. The text of Article 7 of the specification:

‘The types of packaging accepted by the EU which may be used in accordance with the rules in force are the following: 30 × 40 cardboard, wood and plastic** trays* – single layer; 30 × 50 cardboard, wood and plastic** trays* – single layer; 40 × 60 cardboard, wood and plastic** trays* – single layer; 20 × 30 trays* – single layer; Sealed packaging (small trays, punnets, boxes, etc.) with one or more fruits. * The trays are packaging used to display the sales units or individual fruits and/or packs. When packaged in trays, the PGI product is identified by individual stickers with the appropriate logo on at least 80 % of the fruit in the pack. ** Disposable or reuseable plastic of the following types IFCO/STECO/CPR SYSTEM AND OTHERS. In all the above cases (except for the trays) containers must be sealed so as to prevent the contents from being removed without breaking the seal.’

has been amended as follows:

‘8.2. Packaging When packaged in open packs, the PGI product is identified by individual stickers on at least 70 % of the fruit in the pack. Alternatively, if there are no stickers on the fruit, the packages, such as trays and punnets for example, must be sealed so as to prevent the contents from being removed without breaking the pack. It is also permitted to sell the loose product at the point of sale from packaging that is sealed or that contains stickered fruit, provided that the product has been placed in specific compartments or containers prominently displaying the same information required for the packaging referred to in this product specification.’

The amendment meets the need to simplify the description of packaging formats. In order to meet the different needs of the market and consumers in terms of size and type, and given that some packaging formats were provided as mere examples in the previous version, it was considered appropriate to refer to the types of packaging that are permitted under current legislation. In the case of open packaging, at least 70 % of the fruit in the pack must bear stickers, providing greater clarity for the consumer; otherwise, the packaging must be sealed. Finally, information has been provided on selling the product to the end consumer loose from sealed packaging or trays, provided that the product has been placed in specific compartments or containers prominently displaying the same information required for the packaging referred to in this product specification. This amendment enables operators to sell the product – from sealed packaging or trays – in the quantity desired by the consumer and also guarantees that the consumer is still correctly informed at the time of buying the product.

This amendment applies to point 4.8 of the summary and point 3.5 of the single document.

Marketing period

The provision concerning ‘Pesca di Romagna’:

‘The product must be placed on the market in the period between 10 June and 20 September of each year.’

and the provision concerning ‘Nettarina di Romagna’:

‘The product must be placed on the market in the period between 15 June and 30 September of each year.’

have been replaced by:

‘The product must be placed on the market starting from 10 June.’

It was considered appropriate to indicate only the start date of the marketing period, keeping it set at 10 June, and to delete the end date. This takes into account changes in the climate in recent years, which have led to a longer marketing period, as well as the fact that new, later, varieties have been added.

This amendment does not affect either the summary or the single document.

Labelling

Labelling – wording:

Some minor aspects of the wording to be included on the label have been amended, concerning ‘Pesca di Romagna’ and ‘Nettarina di Romagna’ respectively. The paragraphs with the initial instructions are the following:

‘The container must be marked, in letters of the same size, with the words “Pesca di Romagna”, followed immediately by “Indicazione Geografica Protetta” [Protected Geographical Indication] and then by the name of the cultivar. The name, business name and address of the packager, as well as the original net weight, must appear in the same field of vision. The words “Indicazione Geografica Protetta” [Protected Geographical Indication] may be repeated anywhere else on the container or label, including as an acronym “I.G.P.” [PGI].’

and

‘The container must be marked, in letters of the same size, with the words “Nettarina di Romagna”, followed immediately by “Indicazione Geografica Protetta” [Protected Geographical Indication] and then by the name of the cultivar. The name, business name and address of the packager, as well as the original net weight, must appear in the same field of vision. The words “Indicazione Geografica Protetta” [Protected Geographical Indication] may be repeated anywhere else on the container or label, including as an acronym “I.G.P.” [PGI].’

and they have been amended as follows:

‘8.3 Labelling The container may be marked with the words “Pesca di Romagna” or “Nettarina di Romagna”, followed immediately by “Indicazione Geografica Protetta” [Protected Geographical Indication] or the acronym I.G.P. [PGI], and by the name of the cultivar. The name, business name and address of the packager must appear in the same field of vision. The words “Indicazione Geografica Protetta” [Protected Geographical Indication] may be repeated anywhere else on the container or label, including as an acronym “I.G.P.” [PGI].’

These amendments slightly simplify the labelling rules by deleting elements that are required by law, such as indicating the weight. They also allow packagers to specify the type of fruit in addition to the name of the PGI.

This amendment applies to point 4.8 of the summary and the corresponding point 3.6 of the single document.

Labelling – Trademarks

A paragraph has been added to this section of Article 8 on the possibility to use trademarks:

‘Wordings and/or symbols that refer to names, company names, collective marks or individual trademarks may be used together with the wording “IGP Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna” and the European symbol.’

This addition is necessary to adapt to the needs of clients and consumers, including of a commercial nature.

This amendment applies to point 3.6 of the single document.

Labelling – Other conditions

The following paragraphs have been deleted:

‘Fruit which, while produced in the Emilia-Romagna Region, does not meet the minimum requirements laid down in Article 6 of this specification in relation to size and sugar content may not bear the protected geographical indication “Pesca di Romagna”, nor any other geographical indication. Fruit which, while produced in the Emilia-Romagna Region, does not meet the minimum requirements laid down in Article 6 of this specification in relation to size and sugar content may not bear the protected geographical indication “Nettarina di Romagna”, nor any other geographical indication.’

and

‘The wording “Prodotto in Italia” [Produced in Italy] must also appear on batches intended for export.’

It was considered appropriate to delete the ban on using the name for non-compliant products as this has already been clearly indicated in previous articles. The wording ‘Prodotto in Italia’ too is required by law and it is considered unnecessary to keep it in the text.

This amendment does not affect either the summary or the single document.

Labelling – Product for processing

The following paragraph has also been added to Article 8 of the specification:

‘Fruit that is to be processed may also be delivered “loose”, in packages or containers that comply with the legislation in force and that have an appropriate label to ensure the proper identification and traceability of the product “‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’ PGI for processing”.’

Given that rules have also been laid down for fruit intended for processing, it is necessary to add the relevant labelling requirements to the specification in order to ensure proper and immediate identification.

This amendment applies to the corresponding point 3.6 of the single document.

OTHER

Checks

The following sentences in Article 5 of the specification:

‘Article 5 Peach orchards suitable for producing “Pesca di Romagna” are entered in the appropriate register, which is set up, updated and published annually. Peach orchards suitable for producing “Nettarina di Romagna” are entered in the appropriate register, which is set up, updated and published annually.’

and

‘The Emilia-Romagna Region is responsible for checking that the technical conditions established in Article 4 are met. A copy of this register is lodged with each of the municipalities located within the production area. The Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Resources indicates the procedures to follow in relation to registration, reporting of annual production and obtaining the corresponding certification, in order to ensure proper and appropriate monitoring of annually recognised production marketed under the geographical indication.’

have been deleted, reworded and replaced by Article 7 of the specification as follows:

‘Article 7 Checks Pursuant to Articles 36 and 37 of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012, the control body checks that the product complies with the product specification. The control body chosen is Check Fruit srl – Via dei Mille, 24 – 40121 Bologna – Italy, Tel. +39 0516494836, Fax +39 0516494813 – info@checkfruit.it’

The whole of Article 7 of the specification has been redrafted in line with Article 7(g) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012.

This amendment applies to point 4.7 of the summary and does not apply to the single document.

OTHER

Order and titles of the articles

The articles and the content of the specification have been ordered and numbered based on Article 7 of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012. A title has been added for each article to facilitate reading.

Following the proposed amendments, the articles are therefore as follows:

— Article 1 – Name

— Article 2 – Characteristics of the product

— Article 3 – Production area

— Article 4 – Proof of origin

— Article 5 – Method of obtaining the product

— Article 6 – Link with the geographical area

— Article 7 – Checks

— Article 8 – Storage, packaging and labelling

Consolidation of the parts of the specification that are the same for both types of fruit

The current specification consists of two separate documents, the first concerning ‘Pesca di Romagna’ and the second concerning ‘Nettarina di Romagna’. Many aspects and requirements that are identical for both types are repeated in both documents. To aid readability and make the rules of the product specification clearer, it has therefore been condensed by:

— unifying Articles 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8;

— retaining a sub-division by product type within Article 2, making it clear that different lists of varieties apply.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna PGI’

EU No: PGI-IT-1535-AM02 – 15.9.2020

PDO ( ) PGI (X)

1. Name(s) [of PDO or PGI]

‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’

2. Member State or Third Country

Italy

3. Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

3.1. Type of product [as in Annex XI]

Class 1.6: Fruit, vegetables and cereals fresh or processed

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

The indication ‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’ refers exclusively to the fruit of the following peach cultivars:

Peach:

Early yellow-fleshed varieties:

Bordò, Coraline (or Monco), Crimson Lady, Dixired, Flavorcrest, Maycrest, Merril Gem Free 1, Rich May, Royal Gem, Royal Glory, Royal Majestic, Royal Time, Ruby Rich, Sagittaria, Spring Lady, Sprinbelle, Springcrest, Sugar Time;

Medium-late yellow-fleshed varieties:

Azurite, Corindon, Diamond Princess, Elegant Lady, Fayette, Glohaven, Grenat, Maria Marta, Mercil (or O’Henry), Plusplus, Redhaven, Rich Lady, Rome Star, Royal Estate, Royal Jim, Royal Lee, Royal Pride, Royal Summer, Royal Sweet, Summer Rich, Suncrest, Sweet Dream, Sweet Henry, Symphonie, Vista Rich, Zainori (or Kaweah), Zee Lady;

Early white-fleshed varieties:

Greta, Iris Rosso, Monsolle, Patty;

Medium-late white-fleshed varieties:

Duchessa d’Este, Ivory Sun, Maria Bianca, Maura, Regalsnow (or Maperla), Rosa del West, Rossa di San Carlo, Star Princess, Snow Lady, Tendresse (or Joulie), Zaidaso (or Kewina).

Nectarine:

Early yellow-fleshed varieties:

Alice, Ambra, Ara, Big Haven, Carene, Early Sungrand, Extreme Beauty, Gartairo, Garofa, Laura, Maillara (or Big Bang), Maria Emilia, Maygrand, Nectaprima, Noracila, Rebus 028, Weimberger;

Medium-late yellow-fleshed varieties:

Alma, Alma 2, Alexa, Amiga, Alitop, August Red, Big Top (or Zaitabo), Diamond Ray, Dorabelle, Doracile, Dulcis, Dulciva, Early Zee, Fairlane, Fantasia, Febe, Flavortop, Gea, Guerriera, Honey Blaze, Honey Glo, Honey Kist, Honey Royale, Indipendence, Lady Erika, Late Fair, Luciana, Maria Aurelia, Maria Carla, Maria Laura, Max, Max 7, Monrené, Morsiani 60, Morsiani 90, Nectareine, Nectaross, Orine, Orion, Pit Lane, Pit Stop, Red Fair, Romagna Big, Romagna Giant, Romagna Gold, Romagna Lady, Romagna Queen, Romagna Summer, September Bright, Spring Red, Stark Red Gold, Sweet Lady, Sweet Red, Venus, Western Red;

Early white-fleshed varieties:

Caldesi 2000, Garcica, Romagna Red, Romagna Star, Silver King, Turquoise;

Medium-late white-fleshed varieties:

Caldesi 2020, Maillarmagie (or Magique), Majestic Pearl, Nectarmagie, Nectaperle, Romagna 3000, Romagna Bright, Romagna Sweet, Romagna Top, Silver Giant, Silver Star, Sandine, Tourmaline, Zephyr.

For the production of ‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’, it is permitted to use other peach cultivars derived from varietal research provided that it is demonstrated by means of experimental and documentary evidence that the method of obtaining the product and the quality characteristics of the fruit are consistent with this product specification. The use of such cultivars for the production of ‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’ must be notified in advance to and be evaluated by the Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policy, which may to that end request the technical opinion of the control body or another body.

Quality characteristics

When released for consumption, ‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’ must have the following characteristics:

Early yellow-fleshed and white-fleshed cultivars

— Minimum size A: minimum diameter of 67 mm, which corresponds to a minimum weight of 135 g;

— Sugar content: (° Bx) minimum of 9,5;

— Epicarp and shape in accordance with the characteristics of the cultivars concerned;

Medium-late yellow-fleshed and white-fleshed cultivars

— Minimum size A: minimum diameter of 67 mm, which corresponds to a minimum weight of 135 g;

— Sugar content: (° Bx) minimum of 11;

— Epicarp and shape in accordance with the characteristics of the cultivars concerned.

The fruit may also be used for processing.

Furthermore, and exclusively in the case of processing, it is possible to use also fruit that meets all the requirements of the product specification except those relating to size and shape. Slight superficial damage to the skin is also permitted, provided that such damage does not affect the quality and the shelf-life of the fruit. Such fruit may not be sold to the end consumer.

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

All the stages of producing ‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’ PGI up to the harvesting of the product must be carried out exclusively within the geographical area indicated in point 4.

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

If storing fruit that can be designated with the ‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’ PGI, the technique of refrigeration must be used. The values for humidity and temperature inside the cold stores must ensure that the specific quality characteristics are maintained.

When packaged in open packs, the PGI product is identified by individual stickers on at least 70 % of the fruit in the pack.

Alternatively, if there are no stickers on the fruit, the packages, such as trays and punnets for example, must be sealed so as to prevent the contents from being removed without breaking the pack.

It is also permitted to sell the loose product at the point of sale from packaging that is sealed or that contains stickered fruit, provided that the product has been placed in specific compartments or containers prominently displaying the same information required for the packaging.

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

The container may be marked with the words ‘Pesca di Romagna’ or ‘Nettarina di Romagna’, followed immediately by ‘Indicazione Geografica Protetta’ [Protected Geographical Indication] or the acronym I.G.P. [PGI], and by the name of the cultivar. The name, business name and address of the packager must appear in the same field of vision.

The words ‘Indicazione Geografica Protetta’ [Protected Geographical Indication] may be repeated anywhere else on the container or label, including as an acronym ‘I.G.P.’ [PGI].

Wordings and/or symbols that refer to names, company names, collective marks or individual trademarks may be used together with the wording ‘IGP Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’ and the European symbol.

Fruit that is to be processed may also be delivered ‘loose’, in packages or containers that comply with the legislation in force and that have an appropriate label to ensure the proper identification and traceability of the product ‘“Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna”’ PGI for processing’.

4. Concise definition of the geographical area

The production area of ‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’ covers the part of the Emilia-Romagna Region suitable for growing peaches and is made up as follows:

1) The following municipalities in the province of Ferrara: Argenta, Cento, Codigoro, Copparo, Ferrara, Fiscaglia – loc. Massa Fiscaglia, Poggio Renatico, Portomaggiore, Terre del Reno – loc. S. Agostino, Tresignana – loc. Tresigallo, Voghiera.

2) The following municipalities in the province of Bologna: Borgo Tossignano, Budrio, Casalfiumanese, Castel Guelfo di Bologna, Castenaso, Fontanelice, Granarolo dell’Emilia, Imola, Medicina, Minerbio, Molinella, Mordano.

3) The following municipalities in the province of Forlì-Cesena: Bertinoro, Castrocaro Terme e Terra del Sole, Cesena, Cesenatico, Dovadola, Forlì, Forlimpopoli, Gambettola, Gatteo, Longiano, Meldola, Mercato Saraceno, Modigliana, Montiano, Predappio, Roncofreddo, Savignano sul Rubicone.

4) The following municipalities in the province of Ravenna: Alfonsine, Bagnacavallo, Bagnara di Romagna, Brisighella, Casola Valsenio, Castel Bolognese, Cervia, Conselice, Cotignola, Faenza, Fusignano, Lugo, Massa Lombarda, Ravenna, Riolo Terme, Russi, Sant’Agata sul Santerno, Solarolo.

5) The following municipalities in the province of Rimini: Santarcangelo di Romagna.

5. Link with the geographical area

Features of the soil and climate and the skills of the growers in the production area result in peaches and nectarines with special physical, chemical and organoleptic qualities which are sold on the national and European market as typical produce of Emilia-Romagna. The production area has a typical plains climate but is influenced by the proximity of the Adriatic Sea. The production area is the part of the region which has the highest average temperature, with almost no spring frosts which could damage the fruit. The importance of the production of ‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’ is linked not only to objective and optimum soil and climate conditions but also to the social and productive fabric of the area, capable of utilising those resources and turning to account the fruits of the earth and labour. In the area where ‘Pesca e Nettarina di Romagna’ is grown, there are many producers’ associations, which, thanks to their organisational capacity, have set up product collection centres in the area using cutting-edge technology. It is also thanks to the presence of such producer organisations and their organisational capacity that producers have been voluntarily applying integrated production techniques throughout the area for many years. Environmentally friendly and mindful of consumer health, these now constitute the usual production method, contributing to the environmental sustainability of fruit production. The area is so suitable for the production of peaches and nectarines that it accounts for approximately one quarter of total production of the fruit in Italy.

Reference to publication of the product specification

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 home page of the Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policy (www.politicheagricole.it) and clicking on ‘Qualità’ (at the top right of the screen), then on ‘Prodotti DOP IGP STG’ (on the left-hand side of the screen) and finally on ‘Disciplinari di Produzione all’esame dell’UE’.

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