UK NEWS

Welsh leeks given same protected status as Cornish clotted cream

The UK government’s geographical indication scheme protects the name and authenticity of regional products such as Scotch whisky, Sussex sparkling wine and now leeks grown in Wales
The UK government’s geographical indication scheme protects the name and authenticity of regional products such as Scotch whisky, Sussex sparkling wine and now leeks grown in Wales
ALAMY

Patriotic Welshmen have been attached to leeks — and leeks often attached to them — for centuries but now their link to the principality is being officially recognised.

The UK government has announced that Welsh leeks are the latest addition to the geographical indication scheme, which protects the name, authenticity and characteristics of regional products.

The decision means that shoppers will see a logo on the labels of leeks grown in Wales that proves they are buying the real thing.

The announcement, which came on the day Wales met England in the World Cup, brings leeks into line with other protected British products such as Cornish clotted cream and Scotch whisky.

Official recognition for Welsh leeks means that the government can take legal action