Comber Spuds get European protected status

Comber early potatoes have been granted protected geographical indication (PGI) status under European law.

The Comber potatoes are prized for their distinctive flavour and smooth skin. The granting of PGI status means the new season Comber potato joins an elite group of high quality European products, including Parma ham and Stilton cheese. Lough Neagh eels have already gained PGI status.

Protected geographical indication status recognises the regional of the Comber spud and means that only new season potatoes harvested from the fields of Comber and the surrounding area can be marketed as new season Comber earlies.

The scheme highlights regional and traditional foods whose authenticity and origin can be guaranteed.

In their application for the special status, the Comber growers pointed out the climate of the designated area means that the soil dries quicker, reducing the risk of frost in the winter months. The area is dominated by Strangford Lough, the largest inlet in the British Isles. The soil surrounding the lough is red sandstone and gravel and means it is lighter and free draining. This means that the growing season can start before other potato-growing regions in Northern Ireland and the potatoes can be harvested earlier than anywhere else.

Under this system a named food or drink registered at a European level will be given legal protection against imitation throughout the EU.