West Country Beef and West Country Lamb will become protected names across Europe from next year onwards.
Meat produced in six south west counties including Devon will receive the same protected status as Jersey Royal Potatoes, Scottish Wild Salmon and Cornish Clotted Cream through a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI).
The PGI means local goods will be given legal protection against imitation that will help them build a brand name without its reputation being damaged by inferior products.
Farmers and producers have welcomed the news which will see West Country...