Grimsby smoked fish nets EU seal of approval

Meeting at the Humber Seafood Institute in Grimsby with producers of Traditional Grimsby Smoked Fish and the Regional Food Group for Yorkshire and Humber, Food Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said:“We’ve been waiting patiently for Grimsby Smoked Fish to be recognised as a quality, protected product.  It reinforces Grimsby’s long established ties with the fishing industry and is further proof that quality British regional food is gaining the wider recognition it deserves.” Grimsby Smoked Fish traces its tradition back to the late 19th century and is awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status through the EU Regionally Protected Food Names scheme for the way cod and haddock is specially prepared to the Grimsby area.  The fish joins other well know protected foods such as Arbroath Smokies. Richard Enderby from the Grimsby Smoked Fish Producers Association said they were delighted at the registration as a PGI.  “This status will not only help the traditional fish smokers operating in the port but will also boost the fish processing industry as a whole.“It is a testament to the fact that despite turbulent times throughout its long history, Grimsby remains a premier fish processing centre which has maintained the knowledge and skills that traditional fish smoking embodies.”