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APICULTEURS EN PROVENCE SYMPAS
The Syndicat des Miels de Provence et des Alpes du Sud (SYMPAS) is a defense and management organization (ODG – Organisme de Défense et de Gestion) whose main objectives are the promotion and management of honey produced in the Sud-PACA region of France. It oversees and protects the most important official quality scheme for honey in France: the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) “Miel de Provence”, together with two Label Rouge certifications (Lavender and Wildflower).
The syndicate brings together approximately 300 members, with certified production ranging between 700 and 900 tons of honey each year.
In 1989, SYMPAS initiated a quality-driven approach for Provence honeys, which led in 2005 to the official protection of the name “Provence” for honey under the PGI scheme (EC Regulation No. 1854/2005 of November 14, 2005). Since then, the syndicate has been officially recognized as the Defense and Management Organization (ODG) for this PGI (No. IG 03-95).
In addition to this role, SYMPAS is also responsible for the Label Rouge “Lavender/Lavandin Honey” (No. LA 24-89) and Label Rouge “Provence Wildflower Honey” (No. LA 13-94), which guarantee superior quality, clearly distinguished from standard market products.
SYMPAS carries out several essential missions:
Management of the PGI and Label Rouge certifications
As the designated ODG, SYMPAS manages and promotes the PGI “Miel de Provence” and the Label Rouge certifications for “Lavender Honey” and “Provence Wildflower Honey.” These labels guarantee not only the origin of the honey but also its superior quality, in accordance with strict product specifications.
Quality Control
To maintain the high standards associated with the PGI and Label Rouge certifications, the syndicate conducts rigorous inspections. This includes regular laboratory analyses and audits to ensure that every jar of certified honey meets the required standards of quality, purity, and origin.
Promotion of Provence and Southern Alps Honeys
The syndicate actively promotes these honeys by highlighting their specific characteristics and superior quality. It participates in specialized events (Honey Festivals, the Paris International Agricultural Show, the Provence Agricultural Show, etc.) and organizes communication campaigns across various media platforms (press relations, social media, etc.).
Advocacy for Beekeepers’ Interests
SYMPAS represents beekeepers from Provence and the Southern Alps in discussions with local, national, and European authorities. It defends their interests on issues such as fraud prevention, regulatory matters, quality standards, and environmental protection, ensuring a favorable framework for the production of high-quality honey.
