Origin-linked foods—including geographical indications, protected designations of origin, regional specialties, and heritage foods—operate as quality cues, collective brands, and territorial-development resources. While these systems are substantial across Europe, China, Mexico and the United States, significant research questions remain about how origin claims become credible and valuable to consumers and markets.
This special issue investigates three interconnected dimensions: how consumers understand and value origin authenticity; how certification and traceability systems govern markets and verify provenance; and how the resulting benefits and risks are distributed among producers, processors, retailers and places. The call welcomes empirical, conceptual and review articles using diverse methodologies, with particular interest in work from underrepresented regions.