LOUGH NEAGH eels have been granted very special status by the EU, which puts this food delicacy in a very exclusive club.
After a three-year application, the European Union has officially recognised the regional importance of the Lough Neagh eel and it now ranks alongside champagne, Parma ham and Greek feta cheese in having what is called PGI status.
This stands for protected geographical indication status and it is the first for any product in Northern Ireland.
PGI legislation came into force in 1993 and provides for a system for the protection of food names on a geographical or traditional recipe basis.
The scheme highlights regional and traditional foods whose authenticity and origin can be guaranteed. Under this system a named food or drink registered at European level will be given legal protection against imitation throughout the EU.
Northern Ireland Minister for Agriculture Michelle O’Neill said it was a real achievement for the Lough Neagh Fishermen’s Co-operative Society to have attained this quality mark for their produce.
“Lough Neagh eels are one of many high-quality foods that we produce here and it is only right that they are recognised on the international stage. I would encourage other producers to work with my department, who can help them to develop applications under the protected food names scheme,” she said.
“With both Armagh Bramley apples and new season Comber potatoes awaiting European recognition, I hope that Lough Neagh eels are the first of many local products to gain protected status. I share the co-operative society’s excitement at this very great accomplishment,” she said.