On November 19th, 2021, the 32 producers of Plougastel strawberries grouped within the association 'Fraise de Plougastel', created in 2017, gathered for a general assembly in Loperhet (Finistère) to receive a PGI recognition (Protected Geographical Indication) for their production.
“This label, a guarantee of quality and trust for the consumer, will allow us to sell our product better, preserve our know-how, and protect it legally,” explain the co-presidents Régis Pichon and Frédéric Rolland.
The process, started nearly five years ago, should result in their receiving the PGI by the end of 2022. “This all started when we realized that strawberries grown elsewhere in France and abroad were actually sold under the name ‘Fraise de Plougastel’. This PGI has become necessary in our now very competitive sector. It is also essential to maintain the traditional area of production and to allow the younger generation to settle here,” explains Isabelle Le Page, secretary of the association.
The farmers are confident: "Although complex, the schedule is progressing with the help of the Finistère Chamber of Agriculture. The investigations highlight the history of the strawberry and the territory of Plougastel and its surroundings. They also show that this territory has all the conditions to produce quality fruit," concluded Magali Corre, treasurer.
Source: letelegramme.fr
