Scotland’s largest haggis maker, Macsween, is set to break a decades-long ban on traditional haggis in the US by introducing a new recipe that complies with federal regulations.
Scotland‘s Largest Haggis Maker Adapts to US Regulations
A Longstanding Ban: The History of Haggis in the US
The traditional haggis, Scotland’s most famous dish, has been banned in the United States for over 50 years. The ban was implemented in 1971 due to concerns about the sheep’s lung component of the recipe, which was prohibited for use as human food by federal regulation.
A New Recipe: Macsween’s Compliant Haggis
In response to this longstanding ban, Scotland’s largest haggis maker, Macsween, is creating a new, compliant version of the traditional dish. The company will substitute sheep lung with sheep heart, ensuring that the authentic flavors and texture of the original recipe are preserved.
Macsween has already successfully adapted its haggis recipe to comply with regulations set by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. By substituting lamb heart and fat for the lung component, Macsween was able to enter the Canadian market, making it their largest overseas customer base.
A Significant Opportunity: Breaking Down Barriers
The US launch of Macsween’s new haggis recipe would be a significant opportunity for the company. As managing director James Macsween explained, “In response to this longstanding ban, we have been innovating to create a compliant version of haggis without compromising the dish’s authentic flavors and texture.”
Growing Demand: Haggis Exports on the Rise
Interestingly, appetite for haggis has risen in recent years. Government figures from 2020 revealed that over the past decade, the total export value of haggis was £8.8m with a 136% increase in tonnage of haggis shipped across the world.
Macsween’s new recipe is currently being tested and is set to launch in January 2026. While those with Scottish ancestry will have to wait another year to enjoy the substitution, it promises to be a significant step towards making traditional haggis accessible to fans around the world.
