What is the rind of Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano?

The rind is the outer part of the wheel that develops during aging. It protects the cheese and displays the identifying marks of the PDO, such as branding, inscriptions, and traceability codes.
Not all cheese rinds are the same: some are natural and edible, while others may be treated, coated, or not suitable for consumption. Parmigiano Reggiano rind: what to know before using it in cooking.