Sweet success for Laois at national ‘food Oscars’

LAOIS tasted sweet success at the national ‘food Oscars’, as six local producers scooped their just desserts.

The local winners were announced at the 2024 Blas na hÉireann awards, which were held in Dingle from 3-5 October and celebrated the cream of Irish food and drink.

Laois winners announced at the awards ceremony are Abbey Farm Foods (jams); Aghaboe Farm Ltd (baked goods and cakes); The Village Dairy (milk and cream products); Kepak Kingate (meat); Mueller & O'Connell (artisan bakery) and Zephyr Yard (marshmallows), with Mueller & O'Connell winning the Best in County title. Finalists included Íon Oils and Spices and G's Gourmet Jams.

Mark Clancy of Laois Local Enterprise Office (LEO) said they were “incredibly proud” of the local food producers, as he commented: "Their dedication to creating high-quality, locally-sourced products has always been a cornerstone of Laois’s identity and this recognition highlights their hard work and talent.” Speaking as the winners were announced, Blas na hÉireann chairperson, Artie Clifford said, “Every year, the standard is raised even higher and it’s an honour for myself and the entire Blas team to showcase these exceptional products and the dedicated producers behind them to a wider audience.” Blas na hÉireann 2024 saw the return of the Blas Village, where finalists showcased their products, engaged with customers and met key industry buyers.

Now in their 17th year, there were over 3,000 entries for the awards with judging held throughout June and July, when finalists were selected in over 170 food and drink categories.

As the competition intensifies each year, earning Blas accreditation signifies that the shortlisted finalists and eventual winners represent the pinnacle of excellence in food and drink.