Westmeath and Roscommon Blas na hÉireann finalists announced

The finalists for Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards, 2024 have been announced, with the three-day awards event set to take place from Thursday October 3 to Saturday October 5.

The 6 finalists shortlisted from Co. Westmeath are An Olivia Chocolate, Bon Chocolatiers, Bonny Bó, Greenes Free Range Eggs, Mr Crumb and Sugar Plum Sweetery.

“LEO Westmeath are delighted to once again sponsor Blas na hÉireann awards where 6 Westmeath food producers showcase their produce and compete at the highest level on the National Artisan arena.” said Tracey Tallon, Acting Head LEO Westmeath.

Additionally, the 4 finalists shortlisted from Co. Roscommon include Do Me A Flavour, Healthy Bake ltd, Oliver Carty & Family, and Waldron Family Meats.

“I am delighted to see that four very high quality producers are through to the final stages." said Louise Ward, Head of Enterprise, Roscommon.

"I really understand and appreciate all the hard work and dedication that these companies do on a day-to-day basis, constantly improving their offerings to a seriously high standard. Roscommon is lucky to have them.”

“I wish them every success at Blas and throughout their journeys. They are the core of job creation and putting Ireland on the food map.”

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.”

“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 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.

For more information, visit Irishfoodawards.com.