Food NI Members Shortlisted in Prestigious Irish Quality Food Awards
Four Food NI member companies have had their products shortlisted in the influential Irish Food Quality Awards, the finals of which will be held at a gala event in Dublin on 24 th October.
The four successful companies are Armagh Cider Company, Portadown, Glens of Antrim Shindig Crisps, Cushendall, Deli Lites of Warrenpoint and Rich Sauces, Northern Ireland’s leading producer of sauces for foodservice, in Newtownards.
In addition, Hannan Meats of Moira, another Food NI member company, provided beef to James Whelan Butchers in the Republic, another company shortlisted for its quality products.
Michele Shirlow, Food NI chief executive, congratulating successful member companies, says: “I am delighted to see the innovation underpinning their original products recognised in what is among the most influential challenges and one closely monitored by leading retailers on the island of Ireland and in Britain. I am delighted that all four Northern Ireland’s shortlisted companies are Food NI
members.
“The awards come as we showcase our quality and innovative food and drink internationally and at home through the excellent Taste the Island promotional initiative,” she adds.
Armagh Cider was shortlisted for its award winning dry cider, Glens of Antrim for its novel Shindig Crisps and Deli Lites for its feta wrap and its sweet potato and spiced hummus wrap. Rich Sauces was shortlisted for a series of original sauces.
The Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards are for all Irish food and drink producers in the North and the South. They celebrate the quality, innovation and outstanding taste of food and drink being produced across the island.
The award demonstrates a unique collaboration between Food and Hospitality Ireland (formerly SHOP) and The UK Quality Food and Drink Awards. Business development agency Invest NI is among sponsors. They also celebrate the best in retail, wholesale and foodservice and food and drink products available in Ireland.
The ‘Q’ symbol on pack is now the most recognisable mark of quality for retailers, food and drink manufacturers, foodservice providers, wholesalers, suppliers and small producers alike. The awards are made following a rigorous and transparent judging process involving 200 experts
The awards have been rewarding excellence in food and drink flavours, textures and aromas for more than 35 years and are highly respected within the UK multiple grocery sector and food producers for the rigour and transparency of the judging process.
