In fact, the word ‘charcuterie’ has evolved into a ‘catch all’ term for any kind of product found on a so-called deli board.

The word ‘charcuterie’ is derived from French origins and refers to the practice of preparing and preserving meats through methods such as curing, smoking and fermenting[1].

Although UK consumers seem to be familiar with the term, when questioned specifically about what types of products ‘charcuterie’ refers to, only a small percentage knew that it refers to cured meats.

UK traders recognise consumers confusion and therefore mostly stock a limited list of well-known, European favourites such as Chorizo, Prosciutto, Jamon Iberico, Lomo, Jambon de Bayonne PGI, Saucisson Sec and Pâté.

This provides an exciting opportunity for FICT as it launches its three-year campaign to grow awareness of a broader range of charcuterie for both UK traders and consumers.

‘We’re excited to begin our education campaign, revealing how many incredible and delicious products there are in the European charcuterie range,’ says a spokesperson for FICT.

‘Our research shows that retailers perceive European charcuterie positively and that a third of consumers are seeking out French charcuterie products specifically. But consumers are struggling to find the products they are looking for due to a limited offering from wholesalers.’

Over the next three years, FICT has set out to educate UK consumers and promote charcuterie products such as Saucisson, Rillettes, Pâté and Boudin Noir.

‘There are so many delicious and exciting products for our UK audiences to discover and we believe the activity we have planned over the next few years will support them on this learning,’ they said.