Goldings hops first variety to be protected against imitation
The oldest known variety of hops grown in East Kent have become the first hop variety to have their name legally protected against imitation.
Goldings hops have been awarded Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status by the European Commission in recognition of their “quality, history, and links to the local area”.
The hop variety descended from the Canterbury Whitebine hop and was first identified by the Golding family around 1790.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is encouraging other producers to seek and apply for protected status for their products to “take advantage of the wider markets” in the UK and abroad. It said that consumers are “increasing awareness of where their food and drink comes from”.
The Protected Food Names scheme provides farmers and producers with a way in which to add value to their product, while helping consumers to identify foods with a clear regional provenance.
The UK Protected Foods Names Association estimates that recognised products are worth around £1bn.
Food and Farming minister David Heath said:
“It’s great to see a hop join the growing number of British products whose traditions and ties with their local area are being recognised.
“I’m sure all those involved will be raising a glass to toast their success.”
Tony Redsell, director of TG Redsell which grows East Kent Goldings, added:
“We are delighted that the unique character of the East Kent Golding has been recognised by the Commission.”
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