It will now not be possible to purchase a Cornish pasty that was not produced in the area to a specific traditional recipe, the European Commission has ruled.

The popular product has been awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, which imposes strict guidelines on what items can authentically be called Cornish pasties.

As a result of the ruling, David Rodda, rural delivery manager at the Cornwall Development Company, believes more people will travel to the region to try out its produce.

"Members of the Cornish Pasty Association have grown their sales over the past few years and wish to continue to do so," he explained.

Mr Rodda also pointed out that people visiting Cornwall are keen to seek out its more traditional foods, so the industry is keen to meet the demand with new innovations.

Other foodstuffs with PGI status include Champagne, Gorgonzola and Melton Mowbray pork pies.