Stilton cheese gained a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) from the EU in 1996.

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It wants the same kind of protection enjoyed by Champagne and Stilton cheese.

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In 1996, the Stilton Cheese Makers' Association achieved Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status for blue Stilton from the European Commission.

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While the scheme allows it a place among parma ham, Champagne and stilton cheese, the benefits for the region are more substantial.

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The birthplace of afternoon tea, stilton cheese and pork pies, the Leicestershire town earned the highest points in claims to food fame.

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North West Cambridgeshire MP Shailesh Vara, who represents Stilton, will announce the public consultation plan at the village's annual Stilton Cheese Rolling Championship on 6 May.

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The dairy produces a blue cheese made from raw milk which, although similar to the famous cheese, cannot be called Stilton.

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By the way, while we are generally not huge fans of wine and cheese together, Port and Stilton (and other blues) are an exception.

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Try the famous stilton burger, a pepper-crusted burger with roasted garlic cloves and slathered with the deliciously fragrant cheese.

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