Last call for organic producers to enter 2018’s National Organic Awards

With just 3 days until entries close (Monday 3rd September 2018 at the close of business), Irish organic producers are encouraged to enter this year’s awards without delay. Completely free to enter, the awards take place every 2 years so won’t be held again until 2020. (Read more info and download entry form here.)

As people begin to pay more attention to what they consume, seeking healthier options and products/brands that are respectful of the environment, the growth in Organic food and drink is evident across many developed markets. Organic products are to the fore in many of the broad consumer trends we are seeing globally and the global organic market is expected to grow to €224 billion by 2022.

The timing of Ireland’s National Organic Awards is therefore very appropriate. In the midst of ever more innovation within the organic sector internationally, these awards provide a way to highlight and to publicly celebrate the achievements of Irish Organic producers, farmers and growers. Reflecting the global trend, buying organic is becoming more important for Irish shoppers contributing to steady growth in the Irish Organic sector of late.

Irish organic products are increasingly available on supermarket shelves and on restaurant menus, in addition to more traditional outlets for organic produce such as farmers markets or direct from local farmers/growers. The awards celebrate each of these avenues and encourage their further development. Although taste is taken into consideration, the National Organic Awards are primarily designed to highlight market suitability and achievements in the marketplace and to reward products with unique selling points.

Recognising the increased importance of sustainability, not just through production methods but through corporate and social responsibility, a new ‘Business in the community’ award has also been introduced for 2018 to recognise the strong contribution of organic producers within their local communities.

The National Organic Award categories for 2018 are:

1. Chefs’ Choice Award

2. Retail Award

3. Direct Selling Award

4. Export Award

5. New product/Innovation Award

6. Business in the Community Award (CSR)

A panel of independent Irish and international judges has been recruited for judging, including media, chefs and buyers, all with strong food industry credentials.

Prizes: All shortlisted entrants will receive product photography which will feature in local media coverage ahead of the awards ceremony and subsequently made available for their own use. In addition to a certificate and ‘trophy’, category award winners will receive a package of support from Bord Bia, tailored to their individual business needs, to the value of €12,000.

Winners will be announced at an awards brunch in Bord Bia Dublin on 10th October 2018.

The National Organic Awards are an initiative of the Department of Agriculture, Food & The Marine and are coordinated by Bord Bia.

Note: There is no charge to enter these awards however applicants must provide product for judging and arrange for delivery of this to Bord Bia on the relevant dates.