Five Westmeath producers in Blas na hÉireann finals

The finalists for Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards 2025, have been announced, and five producers from Westmeath have made it.

The countdown is now officially on for the return to Dingle, where the best of Irish food and drink will be celebrated from Thursday October 2 to Sunday October 5.

The Westmeath finalists, shortlisted from a range of categories, are Bonny Bó, Fore Distillery Limited, Killucan Honey Beekeeping, Our Creamery and The Irish Craft Soda Company.

“LEO Westmeath are delighted to once again work with Blas na hÉireann to award the best of Westmeath food producers,” said Tracey Tallon, head of Enterprise at LEO Westmeath.

“There are a number of new and exciting entries from our food businesses producing innovative products, this year the diverse range of products highlights the wealth of impressive offerings across our county.”

Now in its 18th year, Blas na hÉireann drew more than 3,000 entries including a record number of new producers. There are now 190 categories, including in fast-evolving areas such as alcoholic drinks and their non-alcoholic alternatives.

The judging, which took place over May, June and July in partnership with UCC and TU Dublin, is blind-tasted and scored by a network of experts, including chefs, buyers, academics, restaurateurs, and industry leaders.

At this year’s Blas na hÉireann weekend, the Eat Ireland in a Day market and the Blas Village return. There, 2025 finalists can showcase their products, connect with buyers, and meet fellow producers, media and food lovers from.

With sustainability at the forefront once again, this year’s event will continue to build on its environmentally friendly policies and support a more conscious future for Irish food.

Making it as a finalist is a significant achievement. The competition intensifies every year, and the producers shortlisted represent the best of Irish food and drink.