Move to protect Scottish heritage

- Published: 18 September, 2009

New moves to get more Scottish food Protected Food Name (PFN) status have been launched as part of Scottish Food Fortnight, which ends 20 September (Sunday).

Rural affairs and environment secretary Richard Lochhead has announced plans to extend the list of Scottish products currently enjoying PFN status, such as Shetland Lamb and Orkney Beef, which make it illegal for producers outside the area to create imitations.

Lochhead said: “Speaking to business owners, retailers and farmers over the summer, it has been clear that Scottish produce is bucking the economic trend and a food revolution is sweeping the nation.

“In order to enhance our reputation at home and abroad, we need to encourage our food and drink businesses to protect the high quality and authenticity of their products.”

As part of Scottish Food and Drink Fortnight, the Scottish government has announced it will bring together producers currently registered as PFNs, with those hoping to secure that status in the future. The event will take place later this year, which will highlight the benefits of PFN, advise on the process for application and provide an opportunity to exchange ideas about growing the number of PFNs in Scotland.

“We’ve seen sales of Scottish products soar across Scotland, England and Wales in recent years, with brands such as Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb riding high, earning pride of place at prestigious events such as the Bocuse D’Or competition,” he added.

“Consumers are increasingly turning to the Saltire for their food and drink as they associate it with quality, taste and loyalty to our producers.”