Limerick producers are the cream of the crop in national food and drink event

FIVE Limerick producers have been announced as finalists in the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards 2024. 

They will all take part in the three-day event in Dingle from October 3-5 to celebrate food and drink producers from all over Ireland. 

Mike Cantwell of LEO Limerick told the Limerick Leader: “I am delighted to see that Limerick has five worthy finalist producers in the Blas na hÉireann awards this year, showcasing the fantastic array of locally produced food and drink available in Limerick.

“LEO Limerick is committed to growing the food sector in Limerick city and county in a sustainable manner and adding to the comprehensive range of food and drinks already produced as highlighted in our new food and drink producer directory published earlier this year.  

“The Blas na hÉireann awards are a celebration of best in class for these food businesses and we are delighted to be involved by sponsoring the overall Best in Limerick award.” 

The five finalists shortlisted from Limerick across a range of different categories are; Ballyhoura Apple Farm, Glen Áine Foods, Glenstal Foods, Kearney's Home Baking Ltd and Tim's Table.

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, a testament to the number of brilliant producers across the country.

Speaking as 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. 

“Seventeen 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 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. 

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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.

Judging took place during June and July and the winners of the awards will be announced on October 4.