A variety of rhubarb grown in darkness and harvested by candlelight has joined French champagne and Italian Parma ham in having its name protected by the EU, officials have said.

Yorkshire Forced Rhubarb has been awarded Protected Designation of Origin status by a European Union programme which aims to protect regional and traditional foods throughout Europe.

It means the name can be used by only the 12 remaining growers of the foodstuff in the protected area, the so-called "rhubarb triangle" in Yorkshire.

The EU designation will guarantee the product is authentic and prevent imitation across Europe.

"Yorkshire Forced Rhubarb has been recognised thanks to the quality of this traditionally grown product and the enthusiasm and commitment shown by all involved," Environment Secretary Hilary Benn said Thursday.

The rhubarb is grown in darkness and then picked by candlelight using traditional methods to produce a sweet and tender variety, environment department officials said.

Although officially classified as a vegetable, rhubarb is normally used in sweet deserts.