Description
Following an industry consultation held in 2021, the Conseil des Industriels Laitiers du Québec (CILQ) initiated a study to characterize the attributes of poutine cheese from Québec, followed by an opportunity study and market analysis. Based on the positive results of the opportunity study, the CILQ continued in 2025 with the development of a specification manual (cahier des charges) so as to obtain recognition of a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), Quebec Poutine Cheese.
On April 20, 2026, the CILQ officially submitted to the CARTV an application for recognition of the PGI Quebec Poutine Cheese.
This PGI is being sought in order to protect the product’s identity and Québec origin. It intends to frame its distinctive characteristics, rooted in its history and uses. It also wishes to recognize and highlight its authenticity to consumers, and to support its positioning and promotion in local and international markets.
Grounded in the deep cultural roots of poutine in Québec’s food traditions, the specific use of this cheese in poutine—an iconic Québec dish—has, over time, shaped the functional and sensory characteristics persued by users.
Practices developed within Québec’s dairy industry therefore help define Quebec Poutine Cheese through distinct physical, sensory, functional, and cultural characteristics that support the application for recognition of the product.
Next steps
An in-depth analysis of this project is carried out by a technical committee made up of specialists selected for their expertise and representing the full value chain, in order to validate the product’s authenticity and added value.
This assessment is conducted in several stages, including a public consultation on the content of the specification manual (cahier des charges).
Once the Conseil has approved these requirements and has ruled on the accreditation of a certification body for product certification, it will forward its recommendation to the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food of Québec.
The Minister will then recognize the reserved designation by issuing a notice of recognition published in the Gazette officielle du Québec.