Not far from your fork to these farms!

Pat Lalor from Ballard Organic Farm in Kilbeggan shared his experiences in the food business with fellow producers when the Regional Food Producers Directory was launched at in Portlaoise last week.
A collaboration between An Olivia Chocolate and Bell Lane Coffee, and new products from the Wild Irish Foragers and Preservers were also launched at the event, which Ella McSweeney from the RTÉ programme Nationwide hosted and Simon Coveney, Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine attended to perform the official launch of the guide.
The publication is the work of the Midlands Regional Authority, Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland, Lakelands and Inland Waterways (Waterways Ireland and Fáilte Ireland) and the county enterprise boards of Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath.
Aine Gavigan, owner of Uisneach Catering Company in Loughnavalley, was delighted to be included in the directory: “The range of high quality produce in the midlands region is impressive, and I try to use as much locally sourced food in my cooking as possible,” she said, “and today has been a fantastic showcase of what’s on offer.”
Mr Lalor told the story of Kilbeggan oats and gave tips on running a successful food business, while Helen McDaid of Fáilte Ireland spoke of the significance of food tourism. Among the businesses represented was also Owen Peppard of Lilliput Loaf Company: plus Tara Jams, Greenfarm Foods, Rosaleen’s Kitchen, Slanemore Farm and Nursery and others are included in the new guide.
The publication contains details of more than 100 producers in the region in categories including bakery, beverages, confectionery, catering companies, cookery schools and training providers; dairy, meats, organic, prepared foods, preserves and produce.
Buyers from the hospitality sector, independent stores and from larger multiples mingled with the producers, resulting in some positive engagement in terms of potential sales and supply contracts.