Five local producers shortlisted for Blas na hÉireann awards

Five Westmeath food producers have been shortlisted for this year's Blas na na hÉireann awards.

The local producers who have made it through to the final of the prestigious food awards are Greenes Free Range Eggs (Rathowen), Killua Castle, Mr Crumb (Finea), Sugar Plum Sweetery (Mullingar) and Bon Chocolatiers (Athlone).

Now in its 16th year, Blas na hÉireann saw its highest entries from across all categories along with many new producers entering the awards for the first time. During the judging, which took place over June and July, over 3,000 entries were judged, the highest on record.

Congratulating all of the local producers on making it through to the finals, which will be held in Dingle over three days from Thursday September 28 to Saturday September 30, Christine Charlton head of enterprise at Westmeath LEO said: “LEO Westmeath are delighted to once again sponsor Blas na hÉireann awards which showcase the very best in Irish artisan foods. Westmeath food producers have much to offer.”

This year’s Blas na hÉireann awards will see the return of last year’s new additions including the Eat Ireland in a Day tent and the Blas Village where the 2023 finalists will get the opportunity to showcase their products, engage with customers and meet key industry buyers.

Speaking as the finalists were announced, Blas na hÉireann chairperson, Artie Clifford said, “After last year’s success, we are thrilled to be back again. The Blas village and Eat Ireland in a Day tents were a fantastic addition and created brilliant awareness for the finalists and winners to both the public and key industry people. Seeing so many new producers enter this year is testament to the fantastic produce Ireland has to offer and I am looking forward to celebrating past and new finalists and winners again this year.”