About two million pasties are made in Cornwall each week, of which 90% are sold outside the county. This national - even international popularity and fame led The Cornish Pasty Association (made up of 42 Cornish manufacturers) to apply for European protection for the name Cornish Pasty.

If granted, then like Champagne or Parma Ham, only pasties actually made in Cornwall could be called Cornish Pasties. The application was made in 2003, and it is anticipated that a decision will be made very soon.

Originating as a staple food for workers in the nineteenth century, the pasty now contributes over ?150 million a year to the local economy. The traditional pasty is of potato, onion, swede or turnip, diced beef (particularly skirt), and salt and pepper seasoning in a pastry case.

Very nourishing, the pasty gives protein, carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals. Inside the pastry case, the filling is cooked in it's own juices with no added fat making it one of the best convenience foods available.