A public consultation on reviewing the 'technical file' for Irish Whiskey, which sets out how it can be produced, will open at the end of this week.

Irish Whiskey avails of an EU geographic indication (GI), meaning the name 'Irish Whiskey' cannot be used by products that are not produced according to the process defined in the technical file.

The name also cannot be used in non-EU markets where the EU has an agreement with that country or trading bloc to recognise EU GIs; for example, in the EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement.

The review of the technical file may result in changes to the rules on how Irish Whiskey is produced.

Currently, the Irish Whiskey Technical File does not currently require the use of Irish grain in the production of Irish whiskey.

The review offers the opportunity to change that.

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine said that Irish Whiskey is an important product to the island of Ireland.

"The industry today blends historic, time-honoured craftmanship with modern innovation. Its special importance is recognised by its status as a geographical indication," the department said.

Geographical indication status is granted to products that possess a specific quality, reputation, or other characteristic attributable to a particular geographical area, where at least one stage of production, processing, or preparation takes place in that area.

Commenting on the consultation, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon said: "This consultation provides an important opportunity for producers, businesses, consumers and other interested parties to contribute their views on the technical file.

"Geographical indications help protect regional food heritage, support local economies and provide consumers with confidence regarding product authenticity," Minister Heydon added.

Northern Ireland's Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Andrew Muir said: "Irish Whiskey is a globally renowned product, rooted in tradition and vital to our agri-food and drinks sector.

"This consultation provides an important opportunity to listen to views on the technical specification, and thereby ensure that it continues to protect the integrity, quality, and reputation of the geographical indication," Minister Muir added.

The public consultation will open on Friday (June 26) from 9:00a.m and stakeholders are invited to review the product specification and related documentation and submit comments, observations, or objections "where appropriate".

This consultation will form part of the process for review of the product specification by the relevant authorities.