Britain wants protection for Cornish pasty

LONDON, July 26 (UPI) -- The British government is seeking trademark protection from the European Union for a traditional dish, the Cornish pasty.

The pasty is a turnover filled with beef, turnip, potato and onion. Originally, it was an easy way for miners in Cornwall to carry their lunch to work.

If the Cornish Pasty Association wins a Protected Geographical Indication, the name could only be used for pasties made in Cornwall with traditional techniques and recipes. More than 30 British products already have protection, with the most recent designation going to the Melton Mowbray pork pie.

The European Union protects the geographical purity of Champagne and Parma ham, among other foods on the continent.

The Cornish Pasty Association says its members make about 87 million pasties a year and the market is growing.

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