The European Commission has added Halitzia Tillirias, a Cypriot soft to semi-hard white cheese, to the European Union's register of Protected Geographical Indications (PGI).

According to a press release, Halitzia Tillirias is crafted in Cyprus from heat-treated fresh goat's milk, rennet, and salt. This cheese matures in salted whey for at least forty days, developing a soft to semi-hard, crumbly texture, marked by characteristic holes of varying sizes and shapes. Its flavor profile includes a fresh taste with lemony and slightly salty notes.

The Commission's press release highlights unique aspects of Halitzia Tillirias: its pure white color, characteristic shape, and irregular holes. These features give the cheese chunks a rough appearance, akin to large white pebbles polished by seawater, which inspired its name.

The art of making Halitzia Tillirias is traditionally handed down through generations. Even today, it is primarily produced in small household businesses or in the homes of Tilliria's residents.

Additionally, the Commission announced the inclusion of Turkish Ezine Peyniri in the register of Protected Designations of Origin (PDO).

The complete list of all protected geographical indications is accessible in the eAmbrosia database.