Caerphilly AM Jeff Cuthbert welcomes announcement at the launch of the European Protected Food Names initiative that Caerphilly Cheese could be one of the next Welsh foods to be granted Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. Currently only Welsh Lamb and Beef hold PGI status but the Welsh Assembly Government has made £75,000 available towards the initiative which is designed to protect Welsh products.
The aim is to increase the number of Welsh PGI products from two to ten within the next two years. Obtaining PGI status would bring several benefits to Caerphilly Cheese including the protection of producers from imitation and increased industry and consumer recognition.
Jeff Cuthbert AM said
‘Anyone who has seen me speak knows that I often mention Caerphilly Cheese and never miss a chance to promote it. I am absolutely thrilled that it may be considered for PGI status.
‘The cheese is a wonderful part of our heritage in Caerphilly – and a delicious one at that. I would encourage the consideration of several of our excellent Welsh beers and ciders which also just so happen to complement the cheese very well.
