MEP Marian Harkin reckons the potato-based snack deserves to be protected like champagne, Parma ham and Waterford’s Blaa.
Just a few months back, Waterford’s famous floury bap, the Blaa, attained what is known as Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) from the EU, meaning that only Blaas produced in Waterford could use the name. PGIs are widely used now in Europe to preserve the regional producers of products such as Newcastle Brown Ale, Stilton cheese and Clare Island salmon and now plans are afoot to get boxty on the list.
The potato-based pancake is popular in large parts of the country, mainly in north Connacht and south Ulster and MEP for the North West constituency Marian Harkin wants to get it officially recognised by the EU.
A meeting with producers is on the agenda at a meeting in Cavan on Monday and in a piece on Agriland.ie, Harkin explains the reasons behind the bid. “This meeting will afford an opportunity to examine how small producers may group together in their common interest and ensure the best possible outcome from the new Artisan Food Co-operation Scheme,” she said. ” The discussion will also ensure that the producers of ‘Boxty’ are fully informed on the steps necessary to secure PGI status for that regionally produced food product.”
It took Waterford-based campaigners four years to get PGI for the Blaa so boxty wont get the nod overnight but it would bring more attention to the delicious food, and help local producers sell a few more both here and perhaps further afield.
We wish them the best of luck.
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