Strong increase in food and drink sales in 2007

The demand for Irish food and drink increased by 5% last year.

According to a new report by Bord Bia, exports rose by more than €400m euro in 2007.

The main reason was a 50% surge in demand for Irish produce in Asia.

Overall, €8.6bn worth of Irish food and drink was exported last year.

Chief Executive of Bord Bia, Aidan Cotter has said the growth in sales shows people's taste in food is becoming more demanding and quality conscious.