Cheese fair helps whet appetites

The growing demand abroad for Irish farmhouse cheeses was reflected at a trade fair in Salon du Fromage last week hosted by Bord Bia at which 14 Irish producers showcased their wares, writes Ray Ryan.

THE authenticity of Irish farmhouse cheese can be traced not just to a region, but to a family, a small valley and even to the slopes of a mountain. It is a claim that fits in well with the global perception of Ireland as a wholesome fresh and green country with a reputation for producing quality food.

That powerful message was highlighted in Paris last week when Bord Bia for the first time hosted 14 Irish farmhouse cheesemakers at the leading trade fair, Salon du Fromage.