Laois meat processor chosen as finalist in EU Organic Awards

A meat processing business based in Ballickmoyler, County Laois has been chosen as a finalist in this year's EU Organic Awards.

Coolanowle Organic Meats, a small family run organic farm and meat processing business, is competing against companies in Austria and Spain for the best organic food retailer award.

"We are beyond thrilled to be selected as one of the three finalists in the 2024 EU Organic Awards for Best Organic Retailer in Europe!" the company shared on social media.

"This is just massive for our small little organic farm business and means the absolute world to us! We couldn't do what we do without our amazing team of butchers, sales & background staff, our suppliers and most importantly our loyal customer base, some of whom have been supporting us since the outset of our organic meat business 20 years ago. We owe this one to you all!

"We await in huge anticipation for the winner's results in September but whatever the result this is a huge accolade to be a finalist!"

The EU Organic Awards were launched in 2022 to recognise excellence across the organic value chain, from farmers and restaurants to SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) and bio-districts.

This year marks the third edition of the Awards, featuring seven categories and eight individual awards. The Awards aim to honour projects that are outstanding, innovative, sustainable, and inspiring, adding real value to organic production and consumption. Winners have the chance to present their projects to a wider audience, showing best practices.

For each of the eight categories, the top three projects have been selected, representing 24 finalists from 11 EU countries. The winners of the eight awards will be unveiled at the official ceremony in Brussels on 23 September, as part of a series of events and activities celebrating the annual EU Organic Day.

Laois Local Enterprise Office has congratulated Coolanowle Organic Meats on the achievement saying it is exciting news for the county.

"This family-run farm in Ballickmoyler has been dedicated to organic practices since 2001, delivering high-quality organic meats across Ireland. Their commitment to sustainability and quality has placed them among the top contenders in Europe! Let's root for our local hero to bring the award home to Laois!," they said.