Blas na hÉireann

The 18th annual Blas na hEireann – The Irish Food Awards take place 2nd - 6th of October, with networking events, showcase, masterclasses, industry panel discussions and awards.

The awards recognise and reward the very best tasting Irish food and drink products, and the passionate, driven producers who make it. Over 3000 entries from producers in every county in Ireland have been judged in the initial round, a month long judging in UCC, and are now down to the very best of the best in what is the largest blind tasting of food in Ireland.

Judges for the awards come from a range of food backgrounds; they are chefs, restaurateurs, academics, journalists, authors, food champions, caterers and enthusiastic home cooks. The judging system, which was developed with UCC and the University of Copenhagen, is now recognised as an industry 'gold' standard worldwide. Products entered are blind tasted and competition is extremely tough, and regardless of the number of entries there are only five finalists in each category.

Food producers from all over Ireland have proudly reached the finalist round and have travelled to Dingle to attend the awards networking events as well as enjoy the festival. Many of the finalists will also be taking part in the food market and taste trail, be sure to look out for the Blas na hEireann symbol and take a chance to taste what has made it to the finals and wish them the best of luck!

More information can be found on www.irishfoodawards.com