The Redruth-based Primrose herd of Gloucester Old Spots and Large Blacks has achieved three top product ratings in the “Great Taste” food contest.
Judged alongside 10,000 other entries, the herd gained one star for its Gloucestershire Old Spot rack of loin; two stars for its smoked dry cured back bacon, and three stars for its belly pork.
Assessed by over 400 food critics, chefs, farmers and food writers, the Great Taste contest is claimed to be the largest blind-tasting event in the world. The judges praised the herd’s three-star product, one of only 153 three-star awards given out, for its “impressive appearance and lovely glazed crackling”. They said it was a piece of meat that “speaks for itself”.
Founded by Sally and Bill Lugg, the Primrose herd is an outdoor unit which includes several traditional breeds, in addition to their Gloucester Old Spots and Large Blacks.
“We know we have a great model, with excellent breeds and so much care and attention at every stage of the process,” said Sally. “Everything is done in house so we have complete control. However to come out on top in such a tough competition and with the calibre of judging so high is incredible.”
The next stage in the contest will see the top performers so far, including the Primrose herd, competing for top-50 status, the golden fork trophy and the title of supreme champion, all of which will be announced at an awards dinner at the Royal Garden Hotel, London, on September 8.