VALE of Evesham asparagus is one of 40 foods to be granted special protected status in Japan and diners there could soon be tucking into it.
The British Government confirmed the news and the popular green spears will also be joined by Worcestershire Cider and Worcestershire Perry.
The delicacy of Vale of Evesham Asparagus already has supreme culinary status and was awarded European protected food name status in 2015.
Other food and drink, away from the county, include Whitstable Oysters, Shetland Lamb and Cornish Sardines.
The news has been welcomed by food and drink businesses across the UK and could see a boost to British exports in Japan.
Japan’s population of 124million has a strong appetite for international food and drink and the country’s status as the world’s fourth largest economy in 2023 highlights the strength of its consumer market and the commercial opportunities for premium British products.
A total of 39 distinctive products from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, already protected and celebrated by the UK Government as geographical indications (GIs), have formally gained protection following the completion of Japanese scrutiny processes.
These protections will safeguard British food and drink products with a distinct local identity, supporting jobs and tourism in mainly rural areas and boosting local growth, as part of the government’s Plan for Change.
Minister for Food Security Daniel Zeichner said: “I’m thrilled to see there’s a taste for authentic British food and drink in Japan.
“We are committed to growing trade opportunities for British producers around the world as part of our Plan for Change, boosting growth and benefitting businesses across the country.
“The UK is home to a feast of flavours from every corner of the British Isles.
“With the new agreement between the UK and Japan, consumers will now be able to chew over their choices with confidence, knowing they’re getting the quality and reputation that British food is known for – it’s the perfect recipe for success.”
Trade Minister Douglas Alexander said iconic UK products could now benefit from the status.
