Derry food producers enjoy success at Blas na hÉireann 2024

Eight food producers from across Derry have won awards at this year's Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards which celebrate the very best of Irish food and drink. 

The award winners from Co. Derry were Mullin's Ice Cream, Morelli Ice Cream Ltd, U-BAKE, Vittle Bakeshop, Taste Joy Company Ltd, Broighter Gold Rapeseed Oil, Corndale Farm and Carol's Stock Market with Vittle Bakeshop awarded Best in County.  

Speaking as the winners were announced, Blas na hÉireann Chairperson, Artie Clifford said, “We are once again delighted to celebrate such deserving winners at Blas na hÉireann 2024.

Martin Smyth, U-Bake receives their award at the annual Blas Na h-Eireann / Irish Food Awards in Dingle, County Kerry at the weekend from John Sheehy, Blas na hEireann and James Simpson, Blenders, sponsor. (Photos: Don MacMonagle - macmonagle.com)

"After 17 years of these awards, it’s inspiring to witness the continued innovation and quality in our food and drink industry here on the island of Ireland. Every year, the standard is raised even higher, and it’s an honor for myself and the entire Blas team to showcase these exceptional products and the dedicated producers behind them to a wider audience.”

Blas na hÉireann 2024 saw the return of the Blas Village where this year’s finalists got the opportunity to showcase their products, engage with customers and meet key industry buyers.

The festival focused market ‘Eat Ireland in a Day’ was back for a third year and included a brand new Meet the Maker stage.The Backyard at Blas, in partnership with Bank of Ireland delivered an impressive lineup of key industry speakers once again, both in person to the attendees and live streamed.

Lucy Ryan, Head of Food and Beverage Sector, Bank of Ireland said: “The growth of Blas na hÉireann each year is testament to the strength of the indigenous food and drink industry, with the ever-expanding number of producers continuing to innovate, and impress the judges with the range of their ambition.

"Bank of Ireland is delighted to continue supporting Blas na hÉireann, and congratulates all the award winners for the sustained excellence of their entries.” 

David Loughran and Sarah Dale, Vittle Bake Shop, Portstewart receive their award from Artie Clifford, Chairman, Blas na hEireann and Emmett Logue, Andrews Ingredients, sponsor.

Now in its 17th year, Blas na hÉireann saw another strong year across all categories along with many new producers entering the awards for the first time this year.

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During the judging, which took place throughout June and July, over 3,000 entries were judged. Products from every county in Ireland were entered to win bronze, silver or gold awards in over 170 food and drink categories as well as key awards.

Name: Cathy Austin and Peter Lynn, Mullins Icecream, Kilrea winners at the annual Blas Na h-Eireann / Irish Food Awards receive their award from Artie Clifford, Chairman, Blas na hEireann and Chris McFadden Cross Rental Services, sponsor.

As the competition intensifies each year, earning the prestigious Blas accreditation is a significant accomplishment, signifying that the shortlisted finalists and eventual winners represent the pinnacle of excellence in Irish food and drink.