Halal Certified Parmigiano Reggiano Records Increase In Demand

From 60,918 wheels in 2017, annual production of Halal certified Parmigiano Reggiano now exceeds 196,000 wheels

Dubai, UAE – August 04, 2026 – Nine years after the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium introduced Halal certified production, demand continues to grow steadily. In 2025, production of Halal certified Parmigiano Reggiano increased by 12% compared to the previous year, rising from 60,918 wheels in 2017 to more than 196,000 wheels annually today.

Parmigiano Reggiano is one of the world's most iconic PDO cheeses, produced exclusively in a limited area of Italy using the same traditional method that has been handed down for almost a thousand years. Made with just three natural ingredients – raw milk, salt and rennet – without preservatives or additives, it is naturally lactose-free thanks to its production process and long ageing. Every year, more than 4 million wheels are produced and enjoyed by consumers in over 150 countries worldwide, making Parmigiano Reggiano one of Italy's most recognised and appreciated food products.

Since 2017, the Consortium has devloped a Halal certified production to meet the growing demand from international markets, particularly in the Middle East and other Muslim majority countries. Parmigiano Reggiano Halal certified products are distributed through premium retail channels, high-end HORECA operators and specialty food stores, positioning the product as a benchmark for quality and authenticity in the halal segment. The Halal version follows the same PDO production specifications, quality standards and ageing process as every Parmigiano Reggiano wheel, with maturation periods that can reach up to 60 months.

The Halal certification is provided by Halal Italia, which carries out regular inspections to ensure full compliance with all procedures. In addition, World Halal Authority works in collaboration with Halal Italia as an international referencing body.

Nicola Bertinelli, Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium, says: “Parmigiano Reggiano is a cheese with ancient roots, produced today exactly as it was centuries ago using only three natural ingredients: raw milk, salt and natural rennet, with no preservatives or additives. This authenticity is what makes it appreciated all over the world. The steady growth of our halal certified production reflects our commitment to meeting the needs of consumers in international markets, particularly in the Middle East, while preserving the traditional production method and uncompromising quality that have always distinguished Parmigiano Reggiano.”

Halal Parmigiano Reggiano at a glance

• Halal production launched: 2017
• Annual Halal production: over 196,000 wheels
• Growth in 2025: +12%
• Total Parmigiano Reggiano production: over 4 million wheels per year
• Ingredients: raw milk, salt, natural rennet
• No preservatives or additives
• Naturally lactose-free
• Exported to more than 150 countries
• Halal certified dairies: 10

The Consortium has also strengthened its presence in the Middle East through participation in leading trade events such as Gulfood in 2025 and 2026, and is already planning its participation in the 2027 edition to further consolidate this growth and deepen relationships with key regional partners and stakeholders.