The famous blue cheese it gave its name to is known throughout the world, but despite years of local protests, the Cambridgeshire village of Stilton is still not allowed to produce it. The history of Stilton is more controversial than you might think. A battle over what the name can and can't be applied to has been rumbling for years. So, as a former MP raises the subject again, what's in a name and what could the future hold for this fought-over foodstuff? It was thought that the famous cheese was named after the village of Stilton, just south of Peterborough, not because it was made there, but because it was sold at The Bell Inn there. However, some historians have claimed the cheese did, in fact, originate in the village in the 18th Century. In 2011, Stilton resident and local historian Richard Landy claimed to have documents that could potentially prove the cheese was first produced there. Mr Landytold the BBC at the time: "I stumbled across a reference to a recipe on the internet that had been sent to Richard Bradley, the first professor of botany at Cambridge University. "This recipe was not only earlier than any previous recipe that had been published, but it also says that the cheese was produced in the village of Stilton." The conversation continues to this day, with residents and a former MP calling for a change in the law to allow the cheese to be made in the village. A row about the origins of Stilton and who can make it has beenrumbling for years. The Stilton Cheesemakers' Association achieved Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status for blue Stilton from the European Commission in 1996. This meant that only cheese produced in three counties - Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire - could be called Stilton. Despite Brexit, the legal protection continues. Stilton is one of just a few products that enjoy this status. Many English regional cheeses, such as Lancashire, Red Leicester and Double Gloucester, are not protected. While Stilton continues to have special protection, it is not the only British food or drink product to enjoy this. Scotch Whisky, for example, can only be produced, unsurprisingly, in Scotland, and even within that there are tightly controlled regions. For instance, Campbeltown whiskies can only come from a specific part of the Kintyre peninsula, while Islay whiskies must be from the island of the same name. And although you can find a pastry-encrusted snack of meat, potato and vegetables almost anywhere these days, a true Cornish Pasty must originate from Cornwall. The same applies to another famous meat and pastry product. If your pork pie is not from the Leicestershire town, it cannot be called a Melton Mowbray. Similarly, if your oyster does not come from Pembrokeshire, then it does not qualify as a Pembrokeshire Rock Oyster. The annual cheese-rolling event in the Cambridgeshire village dates back to the 1950s. The traditionwas started by four publicanswho were thinking of ways to generate income after Stilton was bypassed by the A1 in 1959, Adam Leon, one of its organisers previously told the BBC. The event was paused for seven years because organisers said it wasno longer seen as "cool", but it returned in 2024. You would be forgiven for thinking a cheese-rolling festival would involve the dairy product itself. However, 12in (30cm) sections of an old telegraph pole are painted to look like a cheese. To participate, all teams must consist of four members, and the "cheeses" must be rolled by hand. Each team member has to roll the cheese at least once during the race, which takes place on on a course of about 30m (100ft) in length. Typically, people have taken part wearing fancy dress, and in the past teams of nuns, Smurfs and even a tribute to rock band Kiss have participated. Former Conservative MP for North West Cambridgeshire, Shailesh Vara, is one of the people who have been voicing their opinions on the cheese's origins. Mr Vara, who lost his seat to Labour's Sam Carling in July 2024, said: "Stilton cheese was historically made in the village, and I know there has been a bit of dispute about that. "But the historical evidence that I have seen in the case that the cheese was made here." He added that Mr Leon, described by Mr Vara as a "local entrepreneur", had started "making efforts to make sure that we start making cheese locally again". He said: "I am in conversation with Adam and the villagers have my support, and whatever conversations they want to have with me, I am always available." According to Mr Vara, now the UK has left the European Union there is less protection on where Stilton can be produced. "That protection is no more, so we can now start making cheese. I am looking for it to be made again," he added. The UK Protected Food Names Association, however, maintains that English law protects Stilton, and that any change would undermine the cheese-making industry. Follow Cambridgeshire news onBBC Sounds,Facebook,InstagramandX.
Why can't Stilton make Stilton?
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Stilton Village Continues Fight for Local Cheese Production Rights"
Bbc News
7.7
TruthLens AI Summary
The village of Stilton, located in Cambridgeshire, has been embroiled in a long-standing controversy regarding the production of the famous blue cheese that shares its name. Although the cheese is widely recognized and celebrated, local residents have protested for years against the restrictions that prevent Stilton from being made in the village itself. The origins of Stilton cheese are hotly debated; while it is commonly believed that the cheese was named after the village due to its sale at The Bell Inn, some historians argue that it was indeed produced there as early as the 18th century. Richard Landy, a local historian, claimed to have discovered documents that indicate the cheese was initially made in Stilton, igniting renewed discussions about its historical production and the implications of its designation. Residents, along with former MP Shailesh Vara, are advocating for a legislative change that would allow Stilton cheese to be created in its namesake village, highlighting the cultural significance and historical roots of the product.
The Stilton Cheesemakers' Association was granted Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status by the European Commission in 1996, which restricts the production of Stilton to specific counties: Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Nottinghamshire. This legal protection remains intact despite Brexit, ensuring that the cheese maintains its unique identity. Comparatively, other British food products, such as Scotch Whisky and Cornish Pasties, also enjoy similar protections based on geographical origins. The annual cheese-rolling event in Stilton adds to the village's unique cultural heritage, although it involves rolling painted telegraph poles rather than actual cheese. The debate surrounding the cheese's production rights continues, with proponents arguing that the legal landscape has shifted post-Brexit, potentially paving the way for local production once again. However, the UK Protected Food Names Association cautions that any changes to the current regulations might jeopardize the integrity of the Stilton cheese-making industry, underscoring the complexity of this ongoing dispute.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article delves into the ongoing controversy surrounding the production of Stilton cheese in the village of Stilton, England. It highlights the historical and legal complexities that have led to a situation where the village is unable to produce the cheese that bears its name. This analysis examines the implications and motivations behind the article, as well as its potential impact on various stakeholders.
Historical Context and Legal Issues
The narrative begins by discussing the origins of Stilton cheese and the debate over its rightful place of production. The article notes that while many believe the cheese was named after the village due to its sale at a local inn, there are claims that it was actually produced there in the 18th century. The mention of Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status highlights the legal framework that restricts the production of Stilton cheese to specific counties, which might evoke sentiments of injustice among local residents.
Public Sentiment and Advocacy
The article captures the frustration of the Stilton community and their advocacy for a change in the law, suggesting a strong local sentiment that wishes to reclaim the heritage associated with their village. The involvement of a former MP adds a political dimension to the discussion, framing it as a local versus national issue. The call for a change reflects a desire for recognition and economic benefit that could come from being allowed to produce Stilton cheese locally.
Implications for the Cheese Industry
With Stilton cheese enjoying PDO status, the article hints at the broader implications for the cheese industry in England. It contrasts Stilton with other regional cheeses that lack such protection, raising questions about fairness and market dynamics. The significance of Stilton as a protected product could influence consumer perceptions and market strategies for other cheese producers.
Potential Economic and Political Consequences
The ongoing debate about Stilton cheese production could have wider implications for local economies, especially in rural areas. If the law were to change, it could boost local businesses and tourism. Politically, it could become a rallying point for local identity and heritage, potentially influencing future policymaking regarding food production and regional branding.
Community Support and Target Audience
The article seems to resonate more with local communities in Stilton and surrounding areas, as well as food enthusiasts who value traditional and locally-produced products. It speaks to those who appreciate the historical significance of food and the narratives that surround it.
Market Impact
While the article may not directly influence stock markets or global economies, it could have implications for brands associated with Stilton cheese. Companies involved in cheese production and marketing may need to navigate the evolving discussions around Stilton's origins and legality, potentially impacting their branding and sales strategies.
Global Context
In terms of global power dynamics, this issue may not have significant weight. However, it does contribute to the conversation around food sovereignty and local rights, which are increasingly important in today's globalized food systems.
Use of AI in Writing
There is no clear indication that AI was used in the writing of this article. However, it is possible that certain aspects of the narrative structure and factual presentation could reflect algorithmic influences if it was sourced from automated news generation tools. The straightforward and factual style may align with typical outputs from AI models designed for news reporting.
In conclusion, while the article is largely factual and presents a compelling local narrative, it does evoke emotional responses surrounding heritage and identity. It is reliable in terms of its presentation of the ongoing debate, but it also serves to highlight the complexities of food production laws in a way that could be seen as subtly persuasive.