"A way to reach new markets" Longford food producers encouraged to enter Ireland’s top food awards

Producers can submit their applications to Blas na hÉireann on www.irishfoodawards.com. The deadline for submissions is Thursday, May 14, with finalists announced later in the summer and winners being revealed at a national awards event in October

Published 30th Apr 2026, 14:07 BST Entries for this year's Blas na hÉireann awards are now open Producers can submit their applications to Blas na hÉireann on www.irishfoodawards.com. The deadline for submissions is Thursday, May 14, with finalists announced later in the summer and winners being revealed at a national awards event in October Sign up to our Longford Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Longford Live within your account.

Food and drink producers across Longford are being encouraged to submit their products for one of Ireland’s most prestigious , national competitions, Blas na hÉireann , with entries now officially open.

Last year, Richmount Cordial Company was announced as the winner of Best in County Longford.

Now in its nineteenth year, Blas na hÉireann - Ireland’s largest blind-tasted food competition - celebrates the best producers of both food and drink across the country, with the contest attracting thousands of entries annually.

Related: Richmount Cordial Company announced as the winner of Best in County Longford

The competition recognises quality, creativity and innovation across a wide range of categories, with bronze, silver and gold awards presented alongside major national honours.

For Longford producers, the event offers an opportunity to gain national recognition, connect with industry buyers and showcase their products to a wider audience as finalists will be invited to attend a major showcase event later this year, where they can promote their goods, network and celebrate the country’s thriving food sector.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council , Cllr Garry Murtagh, said the initiative provides a valuable platform for local businesses.

He said, “Longford has a strong and growing food sector, built on skill, care and local pride. This competition gives our producers a fair and respected platform to show the quality of what they make."

Read: Longford ONE@ONE late night Bus Service this bank holiday weekend

Chief Executive Paddy Mahon added that participation can help businesses grow and reach new markets.

“Taking part can help producers raise their profile, reach new customers and build confidence in their product," he explained "Through the Local Enterprise Office, the council is proud to support local businesses to compete at this level and to showcase the best of Longford food.”

Entries are open to producers of all sizes, including first-time entrants, with judging carried out through a rigorous blind tasting process to ensure fairness and independence.

The deadline for submissions is Thursday, May 14, with finalists announced later in the summer and winners being revealed at a national awards event in October.

Read: Longford photographers encouraged to capture the night sky in national contest

Related topics: Longford Competition Longford County Council Sign up to our Longford Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Longford Live within your account.