1. AOC

What do AOC and AOP stand for?
AOC is an official French geographical indication label, which guarantees the origin of traditional food products.
From May 1st 2009, the AOP logo (standing for Appellation d'Origine Protégée or protected designation of origin) has become the European standard and will progressively start replacing the French AOC label. 

AOC - appellation d’origine contrôlée
AOC defines a region or area whose local features give products originating from it specific qualities or characteristics.
AOC products must have a well-established reputation. Production of AOC label products is subject to set procedures including accreditation of operators, strict regulation, checks of production conditions and regular testing of finished products.

How can a cheese be awarded the AOC label?
Products claiming AOC status must undergo an approval process, which can take several years, supervised by the INAO (the national organization tasked with regulating AOCs). Each AOC is set out in a decree by the INAO. The decree sets out the production area and defines the production, ageing and approval conditions.

Link to www.inao.gouv.fr

2.AOP

The origin and aims of AOP
In 1992, the European Union set up a system to protect traditional food. The system has several aims:
* Promoting the diversification of agricultural production.
* Promoting typical regional products.
* Improving the income of farmers.
* Stopping the population from leaving rural areas.
* Providing consumers with clear information. 

AOP – protected designation of origin – equivalent to AOC at European level.
How do I know if a cheese has the AOP label?
These quality logos aim to be easily recognisable for consumers.
The label includes a number and the name of the certifying body.