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PGI — Rhône-Alpes
Naked-neck hen of the Monts du Forez, white or black — a 19th-century peasant selection, today protected by a PGI.
Free-range poultry from Rhône-Alpes, PGI (IGP) since 1996.
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The Monts du Forez, a low mountain area backing onto the foothills of the Massif Central between the Loire and Puy-de-Dôme, are a long-standing area for rearing farm poultry. In the 19th century, selective breeding carried out on farms across the Forez region brought prominence to a white naked-neck breed, which was subsequently sold at several regional fairs and markets under the name 'volaille du Forez' — this strain served as the foundation for the creation of today's naked-neck strains reared in France. The reputation thus acquired was formalised by European-level recognition of the PGI in 1996.
The Pays de Forez is a low mountain area backing onto the foothills of the Massif Central, where farms traditionally rear poultry outdoors on grassy runs.
Appearance
Naked-neck chicken, with white or black plumage depending on the strain, firm and well-muscled flesh; capons and turkeys are also produced under the PGI.
Aroma
Subtle, herbaceous
Taste
Fine, balanced flavour, tender, delicate mountain aromas
Texture
Firm flesh, with superior organoleptic qualities — poultry slaughtered at an age close to sexual maturity.
Naked-neck chickens (white or black), capons and turkeys make up the range recognised by the Volailles du Forez PGI. The Forez naked-neck breed, at the origin of this 19th-century selection, served as the foundation for the naked-neck strains reared in France today.
Free-range rearing on grassy runs, in the Forez area (Loire and neighbouring cantons of Puy-de-Dôme, Haute-Loire and Saône-et-Loire). Feed composed of 100% plant products, minerals and vitamins, including a minimum of 80% cereals. The poultry are slaughtered at an age close to sexual maturity, ensuring their firm flesh.
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Cooking: Roast for 50–60 min at 180°C. Farm-reared meat — longer cooking time than industrial chicken.
Since: 1996
Area covered: Loire and neighbouring cantons of Puy-de-Dôme, Haute-Loire and Saône-et-Loire
Key requirements: Free-range rearing on grassy runs; diet ≥ 80% cereals; naked-neck chickens (white or black), capons, turkeys
Association
Co-operative
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