Towards a Grass-Fed Certification System: The FILIERBA Project and the Future of Quality Livestock in Italy

The FILIERBA project aimed to explore the potential of forage-based feeding systems, particularly those using polyphite grass and hay, for the development of sustainable and high-quality beef and dairy supply chains in Piedmont, Italy. The study combined quantitative analyses, farm surveys, market assessments, and stakeholder interviews to evaluate the adoption and economic, environmental, and social sustainability of “grass-fed” production models.

Our results confirm the widespread presence of grassland resources and the use of polyphite forage in existing farming systems. Cluster analyses revealed the coexistence of both intensive and extensive production models, the latter more aligned with grass-fed principles. Despite the agronomic and environmental feasibility, the lack of structured supply chains and value recognition currently limits broader market development.
Building on international best practices (e.g., Irish Grass Fed Standard), the project outlines the need for a dedicated quality certification system for grass–hay-based products in Italy. Such a system should include clear production protocols, traceability requirements, and independent auditing, while responding to consumer demand for animal welfare, sustainability, and transparency.

The study proposes a roadmap for implementing a grass–hay quality label under Italy’s National Quality System for Livestock (SQNZ), supporting differentiation and premium positioning in the market. The creation of a recognized certification could provide incentives for producers, increase the perceived value of grass-fed products, and contribute to regional development, biodiversity conservation, and climate goals aligned with the EU Green Deal and Farm to Fork strategy.