The first haggis exports to Canada have provided enough to feed 40,000 people, with 17,500 packs having gone out from Macsween of Edinburgh, the sole provider to the country.
Macsween has shipped seven tonnes of haggis to Canada since the country’s ban was lifted in August.
Welcoming the news, Economy Secretary Keith Brown said just before Scotland’s New Year’s Eve celebrations: “This Hogmanay, the huge Scots diaspora in Canada will be looking forward to having Scotland’s national dish at the centre of their table after a 46 year wait.
“This reflects the increasing interest in, and love of, Scottish food and drink in North America.”
He added that the Scottish Government will continue to support Scottish companies to unlock trade in Canada and the US in 2018.
James Macsween, managing director of Macsween of Edinburgh, commented: “After waiting 46 years I’m sure there will be many Canadians and ex-pat Scots looking forward to having Scotland’s national dish for a full Hogmanay experience this January, and of course for their Burns’ supper.
“Canada has been a huge milestone for us all at Macsween and marks the beginning of a long journey of expanding internationally.”
To meet Canadian regulations, Macsween had developed a new recipe using lamb heart offal which is permitted in the Canadian market.
This story was originally published on a previous version of the Meat Management website and so there may be some missing images and formatting issues.
