Quebec is moving forward with plans to shield its poutine cheese curds with protected geographical status. To obtain the PGI, all production stages — from raw materials to final packaging — must occur in Quebec. The PGI will safeguard what the CILQ considers the unique qualities of the province’s fresh cheese curds, such as its meltability and heat resistance. Advertisement AdvertisementAdvertisement AdvertisementHe says the designation will also help promote Quebec cheese curds internationally at a time when poutine is becoming increasingly popular outside the province’s borders. “(W)e want to be able to tell outside consumers that if you want the original (poutine), you need Quebec cheese curds with the reserved designation seal,” he said.

Source: National Post March 06, 2026 12:54 UTC