Meat South West predicts strong future for West Country beef and lamb
Meat South West predicts strong future for West Country beef and lamb
Farmers, processors and retailers have embraced the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) banner for West Country beef and lamb, providing a strong platform to build further success, according to Meat South West (MSW).
Ed Green, chairman of Meat South Wales.
Since PGI status was achieved, around 30 abattoirs have signed up to the scheme, as well as the major multiples in the UK. To meet the criteria for West Country PGI status, beef and lamb must be at least 70 per cent forage fed and come from stock born, raised and finished in Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Gloucestershire, Dorset or Wiltshire.
Ed Green, chairman of MSW, said: “Securing the PGI status for West Country beef and lamb was the result of many years of hard work. That work is clearly bearing fruit, establishing West Country produce on the national stage to the benefit of the entire supply chain in the region. Further opportunities exist further afield, as PGI status has value in other European markets such as France and Italy.
“The first year has been incredibly encouraging, providing real benefit to producers and processors in the region.”
