The winners of Bord Bia's Food and Drink Industry awards were held last night in Dublin.
The award categories were based on six consumer lifestyle trends recently identified in a global research initiative commissioned by Bord Bia. These recognise current consumer needs and reflect the ways in which companies have responded to the trends through product innovation, branding and communications.
The 'Making a Difference' award was won by Co Offaly's Glenisk firm for its organic yoghurts range. The 'Smart Shopper Award' was topped by Co Wexford's Irish Country Meats with the company's ready to cook lamb range.
Flahavan's won the 'Life on the Go Award' for the Co Waterford based-company's microwaveable quick oats product. The 'Real Thing Award' was presented to Cork's Glenilen Farm for its yoghurts and dessert range.
Kilkenny's Glanbia won the 'Quest for Health and Wellness Award' with its Yoplait Essence range, while Diageo Ireland won the 'Living Life to the Full' prize with its Bailey's flavoured liqueurs range.
A Special Merit award was also presented to Coole Quay Liqueur Company for its Coole Swan Superior Dairy Cream Liqueur.
Over 200 entries were considered for the six awards and Bord Bia Chairman Angela Kennedy said this demonstrated the energy and dynamism that is the Irish food and drink industry today.
Irish food and drink exports exceeded the €8 billion mark for the time in 2006, up 10% on the previous year.
