The winners of this year’s Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards have been announced with Mossgiel Organic Farm taking home the night’s top prize.
Hundreds gathered at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre for a ceremony hosted by First Dates star and award-winning Maître d’hôtel, Fred Sirieix.
The awards celebrate the highest quality Scottish produce as well as leading individuals, suppliers, and companies with the judges this year receiving 223 entries across all categories.
Winning the coveted title of Scottish Product of the Year was Mossgiel Organic Milk as the Ayrshire dairy farm was praised for its sustainability messaging.
The Wee Scottish Cider Company’s Seidear, a cider made in the style of champagne, won the brewing category.
In the new Free From and Healthier Choice categories, Nudie Snacks’ cauliflower crisps and Aye Pickled’s kimchi won, respectively.
The business categories saw Mackies of Scotland triumph in the Sustainability award, and Angus Soft Fruits named Primary Producer of the Year.
Iain Baxter, chief executive at Scotland Food & Drink, said: “The Excellence Awards highlights the commitment and passion of the industry to preserve and adapt through some of the most difficult times.
“The calibre of entries this year demonstrates the resilience and the entrepreneurial spirit of our industry is driving innovation and truly excellent products.”
This year’s event was organised by Scotland Food & Drink in partnership with The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland and headline sponsor Asda.
Ashley Connolly, local buying manager for Scotland at Asda, who headed up the judging panel for the tasted product categories, said: “Asda is proud to return as headline sponsor of the Excellence Awards for the 12th year, seeing the best of the best when it comes to Scotland’s unique food and drink scene.
“The judging process for the tasted categories brings together an expert panel of buyers, experts, journalists and food service leaders.
“The standard of entry was as high as ever this year, so the winning products had to be exceptional.
“Congratulations to all of the winners.”
For a full list of finalists and winners click here.
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