Imports of Parma ham soar in the UK - Brief Article - Statistical Data Included

Eurofood, Feb 13, 2001

Imports to the UK of Italian Parma ham reached some 352 843kg during the year 2000, an increase of 38.4% on the amount imported into the UK in 1999. It is estimated that some 100 000 hams were imported into the UK over the year, with convenient pre-sliced packets of Parma ham becoming increasingly popular since the packets were introduced into the UK in 1992.

According to the Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma, over the last six years, the number of packets of genuine Parma ham sold in the UK has reached 3 638 185 packets, making the UK the biggest importer of sliced Parma ham in the world. Paolo Tramelli, marketing manager for Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma said that he was not surprised by the success of the product. "Controversy in recent years over the authenticity of certain foods has caused consumers to cast a more attentive eye upon food products with regard to their safety and naturalness. The British are increasingly conscious of what they are eating in terms of quality." The figures refer to prosciutto produced under the supervision of appointed inspectors, who approve each ham with the Dual Crown brand logo.