A bid to make the famous Dundee cake a protected food name will be launched by the Scottish Government today.
Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead will back the announcement during a visit to the city’s flower and food festival at Camperdown Park.
The Courier has also learned that a tabernacle of Dundee bakers will take part in a consultation process to agree on a set recipe for the tasty sweet treat.
The fruitcake is traditionally made with currants, sultanas and almonds, and a sweet glaze but the group will decide on the definitive version.
It is understood the festival gathering will be used to announce the bid for protection under EU legislation, which regulates a system whereby food names are protected on a geographical or traditional recipe basis.
One of the most famous products is Champagne but there are examples closer to home, such as Arbroath smokies and Forfar bridies.
The EU Protected Food Name scheme highlights regional and traditional foods whose authenticity and origin can be guaranteed.
Under this system the named food or drink will be given legal protection against imitation throughout the EU meaning no one outside of the city will be able to pass their own take on “Dundee cake” off as being the genuine article.
The other benefit that comes with protection is awareness of a product being raised throughout Europe.
The bid will go to the UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, who will examine whether or not it meets the marks of the scheme.