Guide keeps tab on origin of food
The scheme was introduced by Bord Bia in June 2001 in response to growing consumer concerns about the quality and origin of ingredients used in the food service sector.
Members must carefully check and record the origin of their beef, lamb, pork, bacon, chicken and eggs and are asked to provide details of their relevant suppliers on their menus.
Lacken House, Kilkenny, a guesthouse and restaurant run by husband and wife, Trevor Toner and Jackie Kennedy, has won the Féile Bia Award in the 2005 Georgina Campbell’s Ireland - the Guide, which was launched in Dublin yesterday.
Jackie Kennedy said participation in the Féile Bia programme provides them with the opportunity to reassure their customers they are committed to purchasing quality food produce from traceable sources.
“We are delighted to have won such a prestigious national award.
“Féile Bia is a key ingredient to our success, consumers have the right to know that the meat they are eating has been produced to the highest standards and is certified from farm to fork.”
A nationwide billboard campaign targeting increased consumer awareness of the Féile Bia programme is taking place from November 15.
Author of the Guide and leading food writer, Georgina Campbell, said Féile Bia members aren’t asked to fly to the moon - they just have to outline their commitment to the programme by providing details that confirm the quality and the origin of the food used in their kitchens.
Meanwhile, Bord Bia’s 2005 Creative use of Vegetables Award has been won by Probys Bistro in Cork.
