Identifying and mapping critical control and control points in consumer perception, awareness and valorization of Canary Island native dairy goats PDO cheeses

This study identified and mapped critical points (CPs) and critical control points (CCPs) in consumer perception, awareness, and valorization of Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) cheeses produced from native dairy goat breeds of the Canary Islands. Using data from 539 pre- and post-training questionnaires, Canonical Discriminant Analysis and a CHAID decision tree were applied to identify areas of knowledge consolidation and persistent misunderstanding related to PDO labeling, production standards, and regulatory structure. Multivariate analysis clearly discriminated between pre- and post-training responses, with 82.6% of participants correctly classified under cross-validation (risk = 0.206 ± 0.018), indicating a strong overall effect of the training intervention. Post-training consolidation was observed in mandatory labeling elements, breed–origin association, counterlabel traceability, and key technological specifications, with correct response rates exceeding 90%. In contrast, CPs persisted in more complex regulatory aspects, including optional labeling elements, producer responsibilities, and the interaction between European and regional quality schemes, where accuracy remained moderate (approximately 50–90%) and interpretive ambiguity was evident. Overall, this research proposes a practical diagnostic framework for PDO systems by integrating CP–CCP mapping with multivariate and decision-tree approaches to identify where consumer education is most effective and where targeted communication is still required. The findings provide actionable guidance for regulators, producers, and quality-control bodies to optimize training strategies, improve label clarity, strengthen regulatory alignment, and enhance consumer trust and market valorization of PDO cheeses derived from endangered local goat breeds.