Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for Scottish Farmed salmon

The European Commission is shortly expected to award ‘Scottish Farmed Salmon’ Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, according to Scottish Quality Salmon.

Brian Simpson, Chief Executive of Scottish Quality Salmon, said: “This award of the PGI will bring significant advantages to all sectors of the Scottish salmon farming industry.

“Many European consumers, particularly in Western Europe, understand PGI to denote products with specific qualities and characteristics arising from an identified geographical origin. In the UK examples such as Arbroath Smokies and Cornish Clotted Cream have been awarded PGI status and soon Scottish Farmed Salmon will be added to this illustrious list.

“As a result, it could lead to major promotional and marketing opportunities in existing and new export markets throughout the expanded EU,” he added.

The application for the award of PGI status in respect of Scottish Farmed Salmon was published in the Official Journal of the European Union on 14 October 2003. As no objections had been lodged by individuals or organisations within the statutory six-month period, the European Commission is expected to register the name very soon.

Notes to Editors:

Scottish Quality Salmon is dedicated to improving the quality and sustainability of salmon farming in Scotland – from feed companies through to salmon smokers and processors – the whole production chain. Membership now represents 65% of the tonnage produced by the Scottish salmon farming industry.

Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) is one of two designations introduced by the European Commission in 1993, to protect the integrity and reputation of agricultural products or foodstuffs having an identified geographical origin.

Scottish Quality Salmon was the first fish and first non-French product to obtain the prestigious Label Rouge back in 1992. Twelve years later it remains the only non-French food to meet the quality scheme’s rigorous standards.

END 19th May 2004
For further information contact either: Julie Edgar on 07899 875151 or Ken Hughes on 07974 173739.

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