The Balearic Government has taken control of the General Directorate of Agri-Food Quality and Local Product under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment after uncovering widespread misuse at major hubs. Authorities report that more than 500 ensaimadas were fraudulently marketed at terminals in Mallorca and Ibiza, prompting a coordinated response from regional regulators.
According to a press release issued by the ministry, the Regulatory Council for the Protected Geographical Indication PGI Ensaïmada de Mallorca outlined a series of checks aimed at verifying product authenticity and labeling integrity. The inspections began on July 10 at Palma airport, where 34 plain ensaimadas and 21 cream-filled varieties were seized or immobilized for further examination. A separate inspection at Ibiza airport followed, resulting in the immobilization of 328 plain ensaimadas and 135 angel-hair style pastries. These actions reflect a broader effort to protect PGI claims and ensure consumer confidence across the archipelago.
Investigators found that several ensaimadas were produced and frozen by an industrial facility outside the Balearic Islands, then shipped to the islands and marketed as fresh products without proper labeling to indicate thawing status. In addition, an indicative sign at Palma airport proclaimed the product name Ensaïmada de Mallorca, yet the operation confirmed that these items do not fall under the PGI umbrella. This misrepresentation raises concerns about the authenticity and regional origin of products sold to visitors and residents alike.
Health authorities were alerted when creamy ensaimadas with a shelf life of up to eight months were identified at both airports. Regulators warned that the potential for extended storage could pose a health risk, underscoring the need for rigorous handling and clear labeling to prevent confusion about freshness and safety. In response, the General Directorate of Health was notified and a precautionary approach was taken to assess any public health implications arising from the compromised supply chain.
As a result, disciplinary measures are being pursued by the General Directorate of Food Quality and Local Product to address violations related to product origins, labeling, and shelf-life claims. The agency indicated that the investigations into these activities will continue, with the aim of strengthening oversight and safeguarding the integrity of PGI products across the region.
Consumers are advised to verify product labeling before purchasing an Ensaïmada de Mallorca. The Ministry emphasizes that true PGI products must display the phrase Majorca and the official PGI logo on the packaging. Only items bearing these marks can be legitimately marketed under the Ensaïmada de Mallorca designation, helping buyers distinguish authentic regional pastries from imitations. This guidance is part of a broader initiative to protect traditional regional foods and ensure that producers meet strict quality and origin standards.