Scotland for the win: Massachusetts becomes first US state to ‘legalise’ haggis
Scotland for the win – Massachusetts has made history by becoming the first U.S. state to formally recognise haggis as a legal food item, a move that has sparked excitement among Scotland fans and culinary enthusiasts alike. The decision, signed into effect by Governor Maura Healey, follows a campaign spearheaded by Simon Howie Butchers, a prominent Scottish butcher, and David McIntosh Jr, a podcaster who has become a key figure in promoting Scottish culture across the Atlantic. This development marks a symbolic victory for the Tartan Army, the unofficial group of Scotland supporters who have been making a splash in American cities during the World Cup qualifiers.
For decades, haggis has faced an unusual challenge in the United States. Since the 1970s, the dish—crafted from sheep lungs, heart, and liver—has been classified as an illegal food under federal regulations due to its offal content. The ban, while seemingly arbitrary, was rooted in strict guidelines governing the consumption of organs. However, the Tartan Army’s recent efforts have brought this restriction to an end in Massachusetts, at least temporarily. The state’s executive order, announced on Wednesday, reflects a growing appreciation for Scottish traditions and the cultural influence of the national team’s fanbase.
David McIntosh Jr, a passionate advocate for Scottish heritage, played a pivotal role in the campaign. His collaboration with Simon Howie Butchers highlighted the connection between the World Cup and the global spread of Scottish culture. The initiative gained traction as fans flooded into Boston for Scotland’s first match in the U.S. since 1998, creating a vibrant atmosphere that extended far beyond the stadium. McIntosh Jr’s video, shared on social media from the State House, captured Governor Healey signing the order with a visible smile, underscoring the celebratory nature of the event.
“We’ve made haggis legal in Massachusetts. [Un]official.” — Caption from McIntosh Jr’s video of the signing ceremony.
While the executive order does not override federal food regulations, it represents a significant step in legitimising haggis at the state level. This allows Massachusetts to set a precedent, potentially paving the way for other states to follow suit. The move aligns with the broader theme of the World Cup, where cultural exchange often outpaces bureaucratic hurdles. Governor Healey, who has previously praised the energy of Scotland fans, reiterated her support during the signing, stating: “The Tartan Army has brought the energy, joy, and enthusiasm to Massachusetts. This is truly what the World Cup is all about.”
Healey’s remarks echoed the enthusiasm of fans who had turned Boston into a Scottish hub. The city’s landmarks, including the Boston Common and the State House, became scenes of celebration as thousands of supporters gathered to cheer for their team. The presence of the Tartan Army not only boosted morale but also influenced local businesses. Reports indicate that numerous bars in the area have struggled to keep up with the demand for drinks, as fans embraced the opportunity to enjoy both football and traditional Scottish fare.
Massachusetts’s support for haggis is part of a larger trend of embracing Scottish traditions during the World Cup. The state has already demonstrated its enthusiasm by extending the operating hours of over 140 bars and restaurants through the recently passed “Tartan Army Bill.” This law, enacted last week, aims to accommodate the heightened activity from fans attending matches. The impact of the event has been so profound that even the city’s iconic statues have not been spared. Fans have begun placing orange traffic cones on the heads of statues, a nod to the tradition seen in Glasgow, where the Duke of Wellington statue has long been adorned with such cones.
The practice of wearing traffic cones as headgear, though humorous, has deep roots in Scottish culture. For over 30 years, the cone atop the Wellington statue in Glasgow has been a beloved symbol, with locals taking pride in maintaining it. This tradition has now found a new home in Boston, where fans have replicated it on other statues, further blurring the lines between the cultural and the festive. The gesture has become a way for supporters to express their camaraderie and affection for their homeland, even while temporarily residing in the U.S.
Scotland’s journey in the World Cup qualifiers has been a triumph for the Tartan Army. After securing a decisive win against Haiti last Sunday, the team now leads Group C following their victory and Brazil’s draw with Morocco. Their next match, scheduled for Saturday, June 20, at Boston Stadium, promises to be another showcase of the team’s strength and the fans’ dedication. The victory over Haiti, in particular, has been hailed as a milestone, with many attributing its success to the collective energy of the supporters who filled the stadium and surrounding areas.
The legalisation of haggis in Massachusetts is more than just a culinary endorsement—it is a testament to the power of cultural identity. For years, the dish’s status as an illegal food item in the U.S. was a source of frustration for those who wanted to share its unique flavors. Now, with the executive order in place, the state has officially acknowledged haggis as a valid part of its food culture. This recognition, while modest, has inspired hope that other regions might soon follow, ensuring the dish’s place in the American culinary landscape.
As the Tartan Army continues to make its mark, their influence extends beyond the stadium. The fanbase has become a cultural ambassador, introducing elements of Scottish life to Boston and beyond. Whether it’s through the iconic kilts, the haunting tunes of the bagpipes, or the simple act of enjoying a haggis, their presence has left an indelible impression. The enthusiasm of the fans, combined with the state’s support, has created a unique environment where Scottish tradition and American hospitality collide in a celebration of sport and culture.
