Six food producers from Louth among 2021 Blas na hÉireann winners

Often dubbed the Oscars of Irish food, Blas na hÉireann, the Irish Food Awards, are open to producers from all 32 counties and this year six of the awards went to producers from County Louth.

The judging for this year’s contest took place in Dingle in July and finalists were notified in August and the 2021 awards were announced virtually last week.

Blas na hÉireann Chairperson Artie Clifford feels that now, more than ever, it is essential to shine a light and give that all important boost to the talented producers dotted around the island.

“Congratulations to all of the businesses recognised through this year’s Blas na hÉireann awards” said Gráinne McKeown, Boyne Valley Flavours.

“A special congratulations to Natures Best who were awarded Best in County Louth and to all the other prize winners from the Boyne Valley.

“All of these businesses are testament to the high quality, vibrant producers we have throughout the county showcasing the best of what Louth has to offer through the wide range of products considered for these awards.”

Now in their 14th year, the Blas na hÉireann awards are the all-island food awards that recognise the very best Irish food and drink products, and the passionate people behind them.

The biggest blind tasting of produce in the country, the criteria on which the product is judged as well as the judging system itself, which was developed by Blas na hÉireann with the Food Science Dept of UCC and the University of Copenhagen, is now recognised as an industry gold standard worldwide.

Products from every county in Ireland were entered into this year’s competition to win Gold, Silver or Bronze Blas na hÉireann awards in over 150 food and drink categories, as well as key awards like Supreme Champion and Best Artisan Producer.

The bronze, silver and gold winners from Louth across a range of different categories are: