Northern food producers urged to apply for PGI

More northern food producers should apply for protected name status for their products, the environment minister Liz Truss has said.

Speaking at the Northern Farming Conference last week, Truss said there are currently no protected name products in the north east of the country, and that she hopes this “can change”.

'Given the amazing quality of food on offer in this part of England, I would love to see more producers coming forward to apply for this status,” she said.

'Protected food name status provides a huge opportunity to promote high-quality local food, which is part of our identity and which consumers increasingly love. My department is very willing to help with applications.'

There are currently over 60 protected food names in the UK - including Yorkshire's Forced Rhubarb – but there are none in the north east and just three in the north west. Other fresh produce protected name products include Fenland Celery, Armagh Bramley apples and Jersey Royal potatoes.

The protected food name scheme covers regional and traditional foods whose authenticity and origin can be guaranteed, using either the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) or Traditional Specialty Guaranteed (TSG) statuses. Under the system, a registered food or drink is given legal protection against imitation throughout the European Union.

Truss also made the case for more northern food brands to explore the potential for exports, and said that ”local roots can lead to a global reach.”

' As well as farms, Northumberland has food and drink companies like Fentimans, based here in Hexham. It's a family-owned, century-old company that exports its botanically brewed ginger beer and other soft drinks to 40 countries.

'With its local roots and global reach, Fentimans is a great ambassador for our £100bn food and farming industry,” she said.