SIXTH form students in a south Wales secondary school have attended a workshop to inform their understanding of how Wales is depicted to an international audience.

Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) was invited to Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Llangynwyd, Maesteg to provide information on the promotional work undertaken by the company to increase awareness and sales of Welsh Lamb and Welsh Beef across the globe.

As part of the Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification, pupils are required to consider the challenges facing the Welsh economy and discuss ways of projecting the economic image of Wales.

The red meat perspective was considered interesting due to its multinational reach and provided the students with context for one of Wales’ key industries.

Led by HCC’s Consumer Executive, Elwen Roberts, the session was also an opportunity to highlight the benefits of including red meat from Wales as part of a balanced diet.

“Many of the students who attended the sessions will be heading for university and will have to quickly learn to fend for themselves,” said Mrs Roberts. “I demonstrated how Welsh Lamb and Welsh Beef can be used in a variety of affordable, yet tasty dishes that are also extremely healthy.

“They received a copy of HCC’s popular First Degree Cooking recipe books which contain a number of quick and easy recipes, hints and tips specifically aimed at university students. These include dishes such as stir-fry and wraps which were cooked and sampled during the sessions.”

Assistant head teacher at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Llangynwyd, Meleri Jones, said: “HCC’s visit was a valuable opportunity for our pupils to see first-hand how Wales’ indigenous products are promoted worldwide, and the benefits for the Welsh economy. Undoubtedly, the highlight of the session was the opportunity to taste the fantastic food prepared by Elwen using the best of Welsh produce.”

Over 60 pupils attended the workshops and learnt about the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) designation that was awarded to Welsh Lamb and Welsh Beef over ten years ago. They also received information on how this EU-recognised status has assisted with the process of clinching deals in overseas export markets.

PGI status is a guarantee that Welsh Lamb and Welsh Beef comes from sheep and cattle that were born and reared in Wales, and slaughtered and processed in HCC approved abattoirs. It means that the meat is fully traceable and has been produced in Wales’ naturally green environment.

To view a selection of HCC’s recipes using red meat from Wales, visit the website: eatwelshlamb.co.uk/welsh-lamb