Fake US versions of national treasures like the Arbroath smokie will flood the market if Britain gives in to the demands of US business, it’s claimed.

Trade Justice Dundee warns of a “huge economic impact” on Tayside should the UK scrap the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, which shields products from copies.

Chairman Paul Robison said it would be a “calamity for Scottish produce” if the protections were lost.

Shawna Morris, of the US Dairy Export Council, said “preposterous” rules for “monopolising” products should be reconsidered.

The Scottish Government is processing bids to the EU from Dundee cake and Forfar bridie for the PGI status, overseen by the UK Government. The future of those applications is in major doubt because of Brexit. But the European Commission has proposed existing PGI products should continue to enjoy protection.