Leeks join list of produce with special protection
WALES’ national vegetable and emblem, the Welsh leek, has been officially awarded official protected status.
Welsh leeks now have PGI – Protected Geographical Indication – UK GI status, becoming the third new Welsh product to achieve the highly sought-after status, following on from Gower Salt Marsh Lamb and Cambrian Mountains Lamb.
Welsh leeks also become the 19th member of the Welsh GI family of products, joining the likes of other great produce such as Anglesey sea salt, Welsh lamb, Welsh beef and Pembrokeshire Earlies. All the family members are Welsh to the core and uniquely linked to the landscapes and seascapes which nurture them.
The UK GI scheme was established at the beginning of 2021, following the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, and ensures certain food and drink products can continue to receive legal protection against imitation and misuse.
Welsh leeks sold with the UK GI logo will promote the heritage and culture of Wales and provide the product and consumers with certification of quality and uniqueness.
The application for Welsh leeks’ PGI status was led by Pembrokeshire’s Puffin Produce, which already has Pembrokeshire Earlies PGI under its belt.
Huw Thomas, CEO of Puffin Produce, said: “The leek is an iconic emblem of Wales – we are incredibly proud to be able to grow Welsh leeks and the GI status is hugely important to promote the quality and heritage behind this majestic crop.”
Minister for Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths said: “This is great news today and I congratulate all those involved in gaining this award for Welsh leeks. Leeks are a historic symbol of Wales, and I’m very pleased to see this product gain the recognition and prestige it deserves.”
Welsh leeks are grown and harvested in Wales and are a product of several hybrid varieties, rather than one specific variety.