Italian Cheesemakers Embed Microchips In Parmesan To Combat Counterfeits

Italian cheesemakers have embedded microchips into 120,000 wheels of Parmesan cheese to combat counterfeiting. These salt-sized chips, placed in the rind's labels, allow consumers to trace each wheel back to its origin in Parma and Reggio Emilia, ensuring authenticity.
The Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium's president stated, "By being the first to incorporate these secure digital labels onto our cheese wheels, we can continue to ensure consumer safety." This innovation aims to protect the cheese's reputation and prevent imitation products.
In 2022, the Consortium successfully blocked Kraft Heinz from trademarking "Kraft Parmesan Cheese" in Ecuador, highlighting their commitment to preserving the cheese's authenticity.