New Midlands Food and Drink directory highlights region's best local produce

The MidlandsIreland.ie website has officially launched a new Food and Drink Directory for the region, which highlights over 100 local producers from across Westmeath, Longford, Offaly and Laois.

The online directory was launched at an event in the Ballykilcavan craft brewery in Stradbally.

The Government-supported MidlandsIreland.ie website said its directory "celebrates the rich culinary heritage and diverse offerings" found in the Midlands counties.

Westmeath producers featured in the directory include: Novel-T Cakes, Bell Lane Coffee, Dead Centre Brewing, Kilbeggan Distillery, An Olivia Chocolate, Bon Chocolatiers, Sugar Plum Sweetery, Kilbeggan Handmade Chocolate, Barbavilla Dairy and An Ghrian Glas Farm, among many others.

"For centuries, the Midlands has been renowned for its tradition in grain milling and distilling, with the region’s food produce influenced by a unique landscape from rolling pastures to lakelands, peatlands and the callows of the Shannon," said MidlandsIreland.ie.

"Today, the diverse land continues to be a hub for award-winning producers, ranging from baked goods, dairy and meats to spirits and organic produce.

"Global names such as Tullamore DEW stand alongside household brands like Pat the Baker, Odlums, Kilbeggan Whiskey, Carroll’s, and Glenisk, reflecting the region's rich culinary landscape."

It noted that almost a quarter of the food and drink producers in the directory were organic-certified, including Offaly's Glenisk, which is one of the best-known organic brands in the country.

The directory categorises producers into various segments, including bakeries, organics, beverages, dairy, meats, preserves, confectionery, and prepared foods, as well as offering information on farmers markets, catering services, and cookery training.

"It’s an exciting time for Midlands Food & Drink, with many producers in our directory winning awards from Blas na hÉireann, the Food Writer’s Guild and more," said Emmet Kavanagh, Marketing & Communications Manager from Midlands Ireland.

"This platform showcases the finest food and drink from the heart of Ireland on a national and international stage, highlighting the unique flavours and traditions of our region."

The Directory not only lists contact details and key stockists but also highlights producers open to the public, offering food experiences and direct sales from farm shops.

The directory is a result of the Midlands Food and Drink Strategy, which is aimed at promoting indigenous consumption, exports, and visitor engagement through education, marketing, and business support.

* The MidlandsIreland.ie Food and Drink directory can be found here.