Grana Padano P.D.O Delivers Quick, Easy & Healthy Summer Entertaining Tips with Di Palo Selects.com

NEW YORK, NY, August 23, 2010 (Press-News.org) Grana Padano has been an integral part of Italy's gastronomic tradition for almost 1,000 years. Now, more and more American consumers know that 'Grana' refers to the grainy, crumbly texture of the cheese and 'Padano' refers to its area of origin in the Po River Valley of Northern Italy. This cow's milk cheese is produced in Lombardia, Emilia Romagna (only the province of Piazenza), Veneto, Piemonte and Trentino (only the province of Trento) and is strictly linked to the areas and territories in which it is made.

This deep straw yellow colored cheese, when mature, has a sweet, nutty flavored taste that can be grated over pasta or shaved on carpaccio or salad while never overpowering other ingredients and flavors in a dish. Aged from nine months to 24 and up, Grana Padano pairs well with a variety of cuisines and makes an ideal part of a healthy diet.

"Low in fat compared to other cheeses, Grana Padano serves as an excellent source of protein and calcium, and is lactose-free," said Elisabetta Serraiotto, who is responsible for Marketing and Communications at the Grana Padano Consortium. "Easy to digest, it's not only perfect for active people, but it is also a great addition to the diet of children, elderly and pregnant women. Moreover, Grana Padano can be served in many different ways, even as part of a light, healthy summer meal."

As all PDO products are, Grana Padano cheese is produced under strict guidelines in order to ensure that it's prepared to the highest standards according to the P.D.O recognition given by the European Community. The PDO seal represents the Protected Designation of Origin, or Denominazione di origine protetta, and symbolizes the quality and authenticity of products produced within a designated region.

This summer, Grana Padano, P.D.O. - the delicious, 'best selling cheese in the world' - will engage in promotions where consumers purchasing Grana Padano receive a complimentary Grana Padano chunking knife and recipe book, perfect for creating authentic Italian recipes and for serving cheese during your next summer picnic, gathering or party. This offer is available exclusively through Di Palo Selects.com.

"We enjoy bringing traditions from Italy to the United States, especially together with Grana Padano," says Lou Di Palo. "We will continue to provide this high-quality, healthy cheese to Americans throughout the country on Di Palo Selects.com."


About Grana Padano—www.granapadano.com

Grana Padano has been part of Italy's gastronomic tradition and culture since 1135 when it was created by the monks in the Po River Valley in Northern Italy. Based in Desenzano del Garda in the province of Brescia, the Consortium for the Protection of Grana Padano cheese was founded in 1954 by a group of businessmen who shared one common goal—to produce a top-quality cheese based on the traditional recipe. Today this company encompasses more than 200 Grana Padano producers, maturers and retailers. "Grana" refers the grainy and crumby texture of the cheese and "Padano" refers to its origin on the Po River Valley in Northern Italy. Grana Padano is a registered trademark around the world, and since 1996 is a D.O.P Denominazione di Origine Protetta (P.D.O. in English) cheese awarded by the European Community in Brussels.
Grana Padano cheese can be matured for anything from 9 to over 24 months. This variance in maturity leads to dramatic differences in the flavor and texture of the cheese.


PDO/ PGI Seal of Authenticity -

The PDO seal - Protected Designation of Origin, or Denominazione di Origine Protetta - and the PGI seal - Protected Geohraphical Indication, or Indicazione Geografica Protetta - were created in 1992 by the European Union with the intent of ensuring the protection and recognition of products produced within a defined geographical region. Both symbolize the quality and authenticity of products produced within a designated region.

Authentic PDO/ PGI products can only be labeded as such if they originate and are produced within a designated area. The specific characteristics of the food must also resemble the geographical location and environment in which they are produced. In addition the production process and various production sites are continuously inspected to ensure they comply with PDO/ PGI regulations.

The various definitions, regulations and inspections of PDO/ PGI status ensure that each product with a PDO/ PGI seal upholds the authenticity and quality ordained by the European Union.


Grana Padano and The New York City Marathon -

Grana Padano is proud to be a sponsor of the 2010 New York City Marathon. Please look for more recipes and nutritional information on Grana Padano P.D.O this fall as the marathon approaches.