The coiled Cumberland sausage is to have its famous name protected throughout Europe after winning special status, according to the British government.

Food minister Jim Paice said the distinctive delicacy has been awarded Protected Geographical Indication status, meaning that only sausages produced traditionally in line with a registered specification will be eligible to carry the logo.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said the move guarantees the heritage and authenticity of the product and will prove a major boost for Cumbria’s butchers.

Mr Paice said: “We’re justly proud of British food and I’m delighted to welcome traditional Cumberland sausage as the first of our many fine sausages to win protected status.

“This should be a significant boost to Cumbrian producers, who will now be able to prove that their product is the real thing. It’s also a boost to consumers who can have confidence in where their sausages come from.

“Today’s achievement is a tribute to all the hard work led by John Anderson, the force behind the Cumberland Sausage Association, who sadly died last year.”

Cumberland sausages are now the 44th UK food and drink product to have its name protected throughout Europe, joining Cornish clotted cream and Stilton cheese in winning the special status.

Peter Gott, of the Cumberland Sausage Association, added: “This is a great milestone for the county and a well-deserved place in England’s food history for a truly sensational diverse food product.”

Recipes for traditional Cumberland sausage vary from butcher to butcher, but all are sold in a long coil and are seasoned, a relic of the region’s prosperity in the 18th century when the area enjoyed an important trading relationship with the Americas and Africa.

Defra said the sausage dates back to a 16th-century influx of German miners to the area.