Melton Mowbray Pork Pies a Step Nearer Special Status
Many people all over the world know that the hand raised pork pies that come from Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire are something special. And a recent High Court decision has brought them a step closer to the well deserved special status.
Various foods, such as Parma ham and champagne, cannot be referred to by that name unless they have genuinely been produced in the relevant area. And quite right too.
The pork pie makers of the Melton Mowbray area want protected status for their pies.
Amazingly, there are large stores, including some of the major supermarket chains, who retail “Melton Mowbray” pork pies which have never been anywhere near the town.
The local pie makers applied to Europe to have protected status, and were supported by our own Government. No problem, you might think.
Unfortunately, you would be wrong. A company called Northern Foods contested the application, which meant that it had to be dragged through the courts (taking time, of course).
Northern Foods contended that the expression “Melton Mowbray” didn’t actually mean that a pie came from Melton Mowbray. They said it meant that the pie was of “Melton Mowbray” quality. See?
No, the High Court judge didn’t, either, and ruled against Northern Foods. So hopefully the protected status will be forthcoming.
Melton Mowbray hand raised pork pies are made in the town itself and just a few places nearby, mostly in the county of Leicestershire.
You can buy genuine pies at several shops in the town, including the best known shop, run by Dickinson and Morris in Nottingham Street in the town centre.
Melton Mowbray is also famous for Stilton cheese, Red Leicester cheese and Pedigree Petfoods, makers of lots of famous brands including Chum and Kit-E-Kat.
Why not go on a Guided Walk around Melton Mowbray? The next one I am leading is on Wednesday 18th January at 7pm.
Posted by colin on Saturday 14th January, 2006 at 4:45am