Ten Mayo producers in Food Awards finals

SHORTLISTED FionntΡn Gogarty of Wildwood Vinegars, Rathlacken, Ballina.  Pic: Michael McLaughlin


The finalists for this year’s Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards, have been announced, and an incredible ten producers from Mayo have made the list. The countdown is now on for the big return of the awards weekend in Dingle. The three-day event will take place from Thursday, September 29, to Saturday, October 1.
This year marks the return of the awards as an in-person event, with the great and good of the Irish food and drink industry all set to gather and enjoy the very best of Irish for the first time since the Covid outbreak.
Now in its 15th year, Blas na hÉireann saw a huge increase in entries across all categories along with many new producers entering the awards for the first time this year. During the judging, which took place over June and July, almost 3,000 entries were judged, the highest on record.
The finalists shortlisted from Co Mayo across a range of different categories are CΡcaí Acla, Cake my Day, Carr & Sons, Jack & Eddie’s, Krem Delights Limited, Little Cheesecake Shop, Moylurg Honey, O’Haras Bakery, Western Brand Chicken and Wildwood Vinegars.
John Magee, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office Mayo said “Congratulations to all of the Mayo businesses who are finalists in this year’s Blas na hÉireann awards which showcase the wealth of high quality, vibrant producers and products we have throughout the county.”
Also in the finals is Harvest Moon Foods, founded by Westport resident Angela Carney. The company, which produces hummus, pestos and other vegan products, was first established ten years ago in Westport but is now based in Dublin.
Speaking as the finalists were announced, Blas na hÉireann Chairperson, Artie Clifford said, “I can’t tell you how thrilled we are to welcome everyone back to Dingle this year. We are in awe of the resilience of the people in our industry, and to see so many new producers and products come through again this year just makes the excitement for Blas 2022 even more palpable.”
This year’s Blas na hÉireann awards in Dingle will see several new additions, including the Eat Ireland in a Day tent and the Blas Village, where the 2022 finalists will get the opportunity to showcase their products, engage with customers and meet key industry buyers.