07.10.2011
Now in their fourth year, the Blas na hEireann Awards recognise and reward the ‘best tasting’ Irish produce, and the driven, passionate, talented producers that make the products.The awards were initiated by two Dingle-based food producers who saw the need for a comprehensive ‘Irish’ awards scheme, along the lines of the British Great Taste Awards, so that Irish produce could compete on a level-playing field and be recognised by the Irish food consumer.The School of Food and Nutritional Sciences at UCC plays an integral role in the judging process.
The Food Packaging Group was requested to participate in the National Irish Food Awards via industrial contacts who formed part of the organising committee. The Food Packaging Group at UCC works closely with the Irish food industry on issues relating to product development, shelf-life, quality and sensory evaluation of foods and on all issues pertaining to food packaging. The group’s participation in these awards is an endorsement of the group’s reputation in these areas.
Every year, over 1000 products are blind tasted in two tranches by over 60 judges including chefs, food retailers, academics, food writers and food champions.The rigorous process used is unique to the Blas Awards and makes it the most comprehensive and impartial judging of its kind in Europe, and possibly in the world. UCC also brings the magic of science and a thorough knowledge of the Irish palate and food marketplace to the party.With a totally unbiased and transparent judging process being associated with a process that has integrity at its core.
These Awards show significant year on year growth both in terms of entries and profile. With the emphasis on the food industry as one of the sectors highlighted to aid economic recovery, they will become the ultimate benchmark for Irish food quality
The Blas na hEireann Irish Food Awards were presented in the RTE programme Nationwide - aired Monday 3rd October 2011. Click here to view the programme. http://www.rte.ie/player/#!v=1115181
