‘Cheese route’ proposal for the promotion of geographically indicated cheeses of Thrace

In Thrace, which has been declared a “disease-free region” by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and stands out as one of the leading regions of Turkey in the production of dairy products, geographically marked Edirne and Kırklareli white cheese and Kırklareli and Malkara old kashar cheese are produced.

The cheese route proposal is considered an important step in introducing unique and quality products to a wider audience and increasing the tourism potential of the region.

Geographically indicated cheeses sweeten the palate

Kırklareli University Food R&D Innovation and Entrepreneurship Application and Research Center Director Prof. Dr. Hatice Şanlıdere Aloğlu said that Thrace stands out with its delicious cheeses.

Stating that Turkey is a country rich in cheese, Prof. Dr. Aloğlu stated that Thrace, which contributes to this richness, sweetens the palate with its geographically marked cheese varieties.

Emphasizing that geographically indicated cheese varieties should be introduced to tourism, Aloğlu said:

“Creating a cheese route increases the value of our products. There are examples of this in our country. Turkey’s first cheese museum is located in Kars. It is very beneficial to the tourism of the region. Cheese routes are created with the Eastern Express, and cheeses and traditional products of that region are offered to tourists while traveling on the train.” In this way, it is promoted as a tourist attraction and economic gain is achieved.

The more promotion and awareness is increased, the more effort turns into profit. Of course, what we want is to establish a cheese museum in Thrace. Because when we look at the historical development, the development of Kars kashar is similar to the development of cheese and kashar production in Thrace. Our region is very rich in dairy products. A cheese route should also be created in Thrace. “Universities, manufacturers and relevant institutions can carry out the necessary joint work on this issue.”

“Geographical indication opens very big doors”

Aloğlu pointed out that geographical indication brings recognition to products and provides them with a touristic value.

Stating that they are working to explain the importance of the geographical indication to local cheese producers and large businesses in Thrace, Aloğlu said:

“In our research and observations, we see that the awareness of products that receive geographical indications has increased. These products are known by their names. Manufacturers who protect this value, use and promote their logo, obtain more economic returns. Geographical indications provide added value to the products.

Geographical indication opens very big doors. In this sense, we support our producers. In Thrace, Edirne white cheese, Kırklareli white cheese, Kırklareli old kashar cheese, Malkara old kashar cheese are our varieties that receive geographical indication. It is very important that it is named after the city it is located in. We have to carry out special studies to ensure that the cheeses in our own culture are known just like the world-famous cheese varieties. “I think the value of these products will increase even more in the future.”