Hogmanay haggis for Canadian Scots

The first haggis exports to Canada have provided enough to feed 40,000 people since the ban was lifted in August.

Ahead of Hogmanay celebrations, Economy Secretary Keith Brown welcomed the news that 17,500 packs of Scotland’s national dish have gone out from haggis firm Macsween – the sole provider to Canada – and said the Scottish Government will continue to support Scottish companies to unlock trade in Canada and the US in 2018.

Wishing Canadian Scots a happy Hogmanay, Economy Secretary Keith Brown said:

“After developing a new recipe that meets Canadian regulations in August, Macsween’s of Edinburgh have shipped seven tonnes of haggis to Canada – enough haggis to feed almost 40,000 people.

“This Hogmanay, the huge Scots diaspora in Canada will be looking forward to having Scotland’s national dish at the centre of their table after a 46 year wait. This reflects the increasing interest in, and love of, Scottish food and drink in North America.

“As a Government, we have supported Macsween to grow their business and in 2018, we will continue to support Scottish companies to unlock the significant trade opportunities to be found in this fast-growing market.

“I hope to see this mutual trade increase in 2018, while always remaining hopeful that exports of haggis to the USA may be made possible in the near future.

“Wherever you are celebrating – Happy Hogmanay to all.”

James Macsween, Managing Director of Macsween of Edinburgh, said: 

"After waiting 46 years I’m sure there will be many Canadians and ex-pat Scots looking forward to having Scotland’s national dish for a full Hogmanay experience this January, and of course for their Burns’ supper. This year has been a momentous year for us and we are absolutely delighted to be the first Scottish haggis sold in Canada in over four decades. Canada has been a huge milestone for us all at Macsween and marks the beginning of a long journey of expanding internationally. On behalf of Macsween, wishing you all a very happy new year."

BACKGROUND

Macsweens have shipped 7 tonnes of lamb haggis & vegetarian haggis into Canada since the ban was lifted at the end of August 2017.  This equates to 17,500 packs in different size formats or enough haggis to feed almost 40,000 people.