Longford's two 'exceptional' finalists for The Irish Food Awards

Two Longford food producers have been named as finalists in the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards 2026.

Panelto Foods and The Farmhouse Bees and Trees Ltd are among the producers shortlisted for the prestigious awards, with finalists selected from more than 3,000 entries submitted from across Ireland.

The awards, now in their nineteenth year, will return to Dingle from Thursday, October 1 to Sunday, October 4, with the winners announced on Friday, October 2.

The number of food and drink categories has increased this year from 170 to more than 200, with bronze, silver and gold awards presented across the categories.

Judging took place during June and July with entries blind-tasted and scored by a panel of expert judges including chefs, buyers, academics, restaurateurs and industry leaders.

Only the top entries in each category progress to the finalist stage, making the achievement particularly significant for the two Longford businesses.

Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Longford, Micheal Nevin, said: “We are thrilled to see County Longford represented among the finalists of the Blas na hÉireann Awards. These two businesses showcase the very best of our food and drink sector through their creativity and dedication to excellence.”

“Panelto continues to excel in its creativity and innovation and is now one of the most successful bakeries in Europe, while The Farmhouse Bees and Trees Ltd is a small family-run enterprise producing honey of the highest quality.”

“Their success highlights both the strength of local enterprise and the growing reputation of County Longford as a centre for outstanding food production.”

“We are proud to support these businesses and congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.”

Funded by the local democracy reporting scheme