Northern Irish pork back on the menu

Locally produced bacon and sausages were on the menu at Stormont today as Ministers Michael McGimpsey and Michelle Gildernew hosted a breakfast reception to let the public know that pork is safe to eat.

Representatives of the pork processing industry and the health and agriculture committees were treated to a breakfast consisting of locally produced pork sausages and black pudding made in Ballyclare, County Antrim and bacon from County Armagh.

Speaking at the breakfast, Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said: “Christmas is just around the corner and everyone is getting ready to celebrate the festive season. However, I know that the recent concerns over potentially contaminated pork has shaken consumer confidence. This has been a real blow for the industry, particularly at what should be their busiest time of year.

“Today’s breakfast should send out a clear message to the public that Northern Ireland pork is a healthy and nutritious product which is safe to eat and should be back on the menu this Christmas. We have some of the highest quality pork which is renowned all over Europe and we should all be proud of the high quality.”

Notes to Editors:

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