Cyprus's distinctive cheese, chalumi, is set to receive Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status from the European Union starting October 2021, as announced by the Cypriot Minister of Agriculture. This status will protect the cheese, which is the country's second most profitable export after pharmaceuticals, from imitation. The cheese industry has seen significant growth over the past five years. However, the PDO status will mandate that the cheese must contain a minimum of 50% sheep and goat milk by 2024. The cheese, which has a long history dating back to the 16th century, is usually grilled or eaten raw with melon or cooked with tarhana, a fermented mixture of wheat and yogurt.