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Research from the Regional Food Group for Yorkshire and Humber (RFG) reveals that Yorkshire Pudding may be eligible for EU Protected Food Name (PFN) status.

RFG Research and Development Director Sarah Knapper says: “We recently confirmed that an 18th Century recipe exists which coins the term Yorkshire Pudding and links the product back to the region. We are investigating the eligibility of Yorkshire Pudding to apply for protected status, with support from the three main producers still operating in the region, the Real Yorkshire Pudding Company, Aunt Bessie’s and Greencore.”

RFG is encouraging other eligible Yorkshire food producers to seek support and advice on applying.

Sarah Knapper continues: “There is a growing enthusiasm amongst consumers for high quality, genuine, regional produce. The number of PFNs granted in the UK is greatly behind other EU countries, and not for lack of eligible entries, especially in Yorkshire.

“We will continue to work with producers on submitting products to the PFN scheme, helping to put Yorkshire’s mark on the national and European food map.”

RFG worked with Defra for six years to achieve Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status for Yorkshire Forced Rhubarb, which was granted last month. The product was chosen because of its heritage, the traditional methods used of handpicking the rhubarb by candlelight, and the significance of the Yorkshire Rhubarb Triangle between Wakefield, Leeds and Bradford.

Several Yorkshire and Humber companies have already achieved the status, including Swaledale cheese, Grimsby Traditional Smoked Haddock, and Hawes-based The Wensleydale Creamery is currently in the application process.

Any companies in Yorkshire and Humber which would like more advice and guidance regarding Protected Food Name status criteria and eligibility should contact the RFG on 01937 830354.