Scottish Wild Salmon is set to join the ranks of Champagne and Cornish Pasties in gaining the EU’s coveted PGI status.

The news comes after the Salmon Net Fishing Association of Scotland made an application to register the name in 2010.

Scottish Wild Salmon – of the species Salmo Salar - are described as being firm and bright silver in colour with a dark blue back and a distinctive fresh smell. They can be caught up to 1,500 metres off the Scottish coast.   

PGI status for Scottish foods was a welcome step and the recognition for Scottish Wild Salmon reflected its heritage and provenance, said a spokesman for the Scottish government. “There are tight controls over salmon netting in Scotland and we’re committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that salmon fishing is kept at sustainable levels.”

Scottish Farmed Salmon was awarded PGI status in 2004.