Cornish Sardine reels in EU approval to become UK’s latest protected food name

The Cornish Sardine is the latest UK product to be recognised under the EU Protected Food Names Scheme for its quality and regional identity.

The product was awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status because of the way sardines are caught and the historical link attached to the fishing of sardines in Cornish waters.

The announcement was made today at New Covent Garden Market as Ministers gathered to promote the best of British regional and specialty foods at a Christmas Market organised by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

The award means that Cornish Sardines have become the UK’s 40th food name protected under the EU Protected Food Name (PFN) scheme, joining the likes of Stilton cheese, Melton Mowbray Pork Pies and Scotch Beef and Lamb.

The scheme ensures food names are legally protected on the basis of their link to a specific geographical area or because they are made to a traditional recipe.

Minister for Food, Farming and Environment Jim Fitzpatrick said:

"I am delighted that Cornish Sardines have been awarded PGI status. The award recognises the tradition and long established ties Cornwall has with the fishing industry and reinforces the fact that quality British regional food is gaining the wider recognition it deserves.

"2009 has been a good year for recognition of British products; Cornish Sardines are the third UK registration this year and bring the UK’s protected food name total to 40."

The application’s success is the result of the close co-operation between Defra officials and members of the producer group.

Celebrating the good news, Nick Howell Chairman of the Cornish Sardine Management Association said:

"The fishermen and processors of Cornwall have combined their efforts over the last ten years in re-building this traditional fishery and we would like to thank Defra for guiding us through the complex process of getting EU approval for Cornish Sardines and we can now focus on promoting the sustainability and quality of our brand."