Dundalk and north Louth producers win Great Taste Awards

Three local producers have been recognised by the Guild of Good Food with their Great Taste Awards for quality produce.

Carlingford Oyster Company were honoured with 3, 2 and 1 star awards. Always attracted by the sea, owner Peter Louët Feisser  was inspired in 1974 to begin growing oysters after hearing a broadcast on BBC radio 4. Now in his 80’s Peter can still be found early in the morning out on the oyster farm at low tide perfecting new growing techniques devised to create the ultimate Carlingford Oyster.

Cooley Oysters Ltd were given a two star award. The Ferguson family established the business in 1984 and have been oyster farming on their site for over 35 years.

Dundalk based Dreambeans Coffee was awarded one star for their Jima Jive.

Now in its 31st year, Great Taste is the world’s largest, longest standing and most respected food accreditation scheme for artisan and specialty food and drink producers.

Great Taste stars are highly respected seals of approval. A one-star award is given to a product that is simply delicious, two-stars represent an outstanding product and three-stars are only given to products that are faultless or totally exquisite. 3-star is the highest accolade anyone can get, less than 2% of entries achieved it this year. 

Read Next: Driver in Louth tests positive for cocaine after overtaking on solid white line

John Farrand, managing director of the Guild of Fine Food, said: “It’s hugely important to us at the guild to inject some positivity into the specialty food and drink industry. 

“Given the economic headwinds that both independent retailers and small and medium producers are facing, the announcement of the 2024 crop of Great Taste stars is now an annual fillip for us all. It’s a real privilege to support and underpin independent makers through the process of Great Taste.”