Italian buffalo mozzarella producers fear their reputation could be undermined after it was revealed some were using cow's milk in production.

An investigation is under way after random tests found about a quarter of sampled cheese was adulterated.

The cheese has protected status under EU law, as it is made from the milk of domesticated water buffalo raised in designated areas of southern Italy.

That allows producers to charge a premium.

The Italian Agricultural Confederation said the discovery could harm the reputation of an industry worth some $400 million a year, reports the BBC..

To read full BBC story — Go Here Now.