Six Westmeath food producers shortlisted for Blas na hÉireann food awards
Six Westmeath food producers have been shortlisted for this year's Blas na hÉireann food awards.
The six local finalists are: An Olivia Chocolate, Bon Chocolatiers, Bonny Bó, Greenes Free Range Eggs, Mr Crumb and Sugar Plum Sweetery. Now in its 17th year, Blas na hÉireann saw another record-breaking year across all categories along with many new producers entering the awards for the first time this year. During the judging, which took place in June and July, over 3,000 entries were judged, testament to the number of brilliant producers across the country.
Congratulating the six local finalists, Tracey Tallon, acting head LEO Westmeath said: “LEO Westmeath are delighted to once again sponsor Blas na hÉireann awards where six Westmeath food producers showcase their produce and compete at the highest level on the National Artisan arena.” said Tracey Tallon, Acting Head LEO Westmeath.
Speaking after the finalists were announced, Blas na hÉireann chairperson, Artie Clifford said, “I started the awards after 30 years in the food industry, and I knew there was a need to celebrate the amazing food and drink being produced on the island of Ireland. 17 years later, it continues to delight me the number of new producers entering each year along with so many familiar faces returning year on year. We are an island of phenomenal producers and should be very proud of that, being able to showcase the very best of the best in Dingle each year is a real privilege for the whole Blas team.”
This year’s Blas na hÉireann awards in Dingle, which take place from Thursday October 3 to Saturday October 5. will see the return of Eat Ireland in a Day market and the Blas Village where the 2024 finalists will get the opportunity to showcase their products, engage with customers and meet key industry buyers. This year's focus will be on sustainability with a commitment to encourage zero-waste throughout the three days of the awards in line with the Dingle Food Festival ethos. One new element at Blas will be the removal of any single use cups and the introduction of the first electric van delivering food and drink to the awards from across the country. These new initiatives are supported by Bank of Ireland in partnership with Blas.
With over 3,000 products entered in this year’s Blas na hÉireann, making it as a finalist is a huge achievement and one to be very proud of. The competition ramps up year on year, meaning those producers who are shortlisted as finalists really are the crème de la crème of Irish food and drink.