Protected geographical indication (PGI) Irish grass fed beef has landed on supermarket shelves for the first time since achieving the recognition in December.
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine Charlie McConalogue TD visited Milan, Italy to see the first PGI Irish beef product made available to customers.
The PGI mark indicates that products have a specific link to the place they are made.
It enables customers to identify and trust quality products, while also helping producers market their offerings.
‘An Important Milestone’
McConalogue said, “Today marks an important milestone for our producers and processors of Irish grass fed beef.
“It was only last December that Ireland secured this PGI status by the European Union (EU), so seeing product with the PGI mark available to consumers so soon is a testament to the hard work of everyone involved in achieving this recognition.
“This was no small task and I want to acknowledge in particular the exporter, the ABP Group and their farmer suppliers.
“They were also supported strongly by Bord Bia and my Department which demonstrates the collective determination to drive value for the Irish beef sector.”
McConalogue said the appearance of the beef in Italy since marking the recognition of the accreditation in Donegal last month showcased the “farm to fork credentials” of Irish beef.
He continued, “The EU quality scheme which allows producers achieve PGI status for their products is an important means to communicate distinctive qualities of European products.”
“The PGI mark on pack has particular resonance with Italian consumers making this a significant first launch, and I look forward now to seeing its progress in this and many more markets in the future.”
‘Very Positive News’
Jim O’Toole, the chief executive of Bord Bia, also welcomed the appearance of PGI Irish grass fed beef.
O’Toole said, “PGI is a recognition by the European Commission that Irish grass-fed beef is a truly unique product with a quality and reputation specific to how Irish farmers and processors produce beef to the very highest standard.
“This recognition is hard won, but well-deserved and very positive news for our sector.”
O’Toole added that Bord Bia is working with farmers and processors to get Irish grass fed beef on the market.
He concluded, “We will continue to explore all market opportunities that PGI status presents, specifically focusing on markets and customers offering the best potential for Irish farmers and processors.”
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