There were many smiling faces last Friday morning, as more and more producers of protected food name (PFN) products walked through one of the most famous doorways in the country; number 10 Downing Street. Fifteen producers had agreed to participate in a showcase event, hosted by the Food and Farming Minister Jim Fitzpatrick. The products included our iconic and most stalwart of protected food names, such as Scotch Beef and Lamb, Arbroath Smokies, Welsh Lamb, Cornish Clotted Cream,  Westcountry Farmhouse Cheddar, Whistable Oyster, Bishops Finger and Spitfire and of course our beloved Stilton Cheese and Beacon Fell Lancashire Cheese. But it also showcased the latest member to the UK PFN family, The Melton Mowbray Pork Pie, along side the soon to join members of Yorkshire Forced Rhubarb, the Cornish Pasty and Cornish Sardines!

The event was planned to give media the opportunity to see and taste a diverse selection of UK products all branding the iconic logos of European protection.

Speaking at the event Mr. Fitzpatrick stated:

“Local produce that is traditionally made, unique and authentic attracts people from all over the world for its taste and its quality – it’s good for local businesses and local communities. And that’s something that deserves protection.

“Through this scheme, we have a way to stand up for local producers and protect their products. So I’m calling on more British producers to get their food protected and for their communities to get behind them. It’s not something that can be done overnight, but it’s worth it, in terms of the protection it gives the producer and the opportunities it creates for their renowned products…I want to see the UK’s regional foods on the world map.

“The EU Protected Food Name Scheme means farmers, producers and shoppers all know that the special foods we’re buying are authentic. And it protects all these small businesses that help keep our rural areas alive”

Janet Oldroyd spokesperson for the Yorkshire Rhubarb Triangle Growers was invited to say a few words on behalf of all the PFN producers. Janet spoke of how her family have been growing this temperamental crop for 5 generations, and why she decided to apply for protection, because as she says “we were not the first BUT, I am determined we shall not be the last!” Janet had some advice for prospective producers considering taking advantage of the European scheme to protect their product; “Don’t be daunted – there is help out there. Without the help and advice of Irene Bocchetta and ADAS, this application would never have been made. But be patient it’s a long process”.

So in just a little over two hours, there was a real buzz in the State Rooms of Number 10. A buzz Number 10 are keen to repeat next year, in fact we have confirmation that they would like to see it as an annual event. Won’t it be great to be celebrating 45 UK protected food names in the not too distant future!

...and the celebrations continue!.....

Click here to watch a video featuring several of the producers who attended the event