The milk, the skilfulness of the workers and a patient and well managed ripening process are the staple qualities of Latteria Sociale Mantova cheeses. This cooperative is one of the only producers of Padano that has submitted the whole production procedure to the UNI EN ISO 9001:2000 quality certification. The whole production is subjected to strict controls, as per the requirements of the Consortium for the Protection of Grana Padano cheese, giving these cheeses the rightful D.O.P certification (Protected Designation of Origin). Made from unpasteurised cow's milk and generally aged for two years, Grana Padano develops a firm, thick and deeply straw-coloured rind protecting the fragrant, dry, flaking interior. Grana, meaning grainy, reflects the fine granular texture with an intensely sweet flavour. As the cheese ages, the flavours become pronounced, savoury and complex and the texture becomes more crumbly. Although similar to Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Padano is inexpensive because areas producing the cheese are bigger, it is less crumbly, milder and less complex.