EDINBURGH, Scotland, July 1 (UPI) -- Scotland is renewing a push for the U.S. to lift their ban on importing the traditional Scottish dish of haggis.
The dish was made illegal because it contains lungs, which have been banned from being included in food since 1971.
U.K. Environment Secretary Owen Paterson said Sunday that he would ask his American counterpart, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, to consider lifting the ban.
"I share many haggis producers' disappointment that American diners are currently unable to enjoy the taste of Scotland's wonderful national dish in their own country. I am meeting my U.S. counterpart today to discuss how we can begin exporting it, particularly as so many Americans enjoy celebrating their Scottish heritage. This government has opened many markets for our home-grown food and drink businesses."
The haggis market in the U.K. is worth 15 million pounds and could see substantial growth if it is allowed to be sold in the U.S.
The renewed effort comes after the U.S. lifted their ban on beef and lamb from the U.K. after mad cow disease broke out 20 years ago.
