Mayo Producers Success: Black of Ireland Harvest
Mayo food Producers Shine at Blás na hÉireann Awards
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Updated October 13, 2025, at 9:31 PM GMT
Overview of the Awards
Several Mayo-based food producers were recognized at the 2024 Blás na hÉireann Irish Food awards, celebrating the quality and innovation within Ireland’s food and drink industry. The awards, presented by Food Academy – a partnership between SuperValu and the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) – highlight emerging and established producers across the country.
Nice Ice Cream: A Rising Star
Nice Ice Cream,a new food Academy producer set to begin operations in 2025,achieved meaningful success. Founded by julia and Alexander Kuzminova, originally from Odesa, Ukraine, the company won the “Best Start Up” award for their Noble Mango Sorbet. Their products combine organic Irish milk with organic fruits and premium ingredients.
the Blás na hÉireann awards recognize Nice Ice Cream’s commitment to quality and innovation. The company also received a bronze award for their Noble Chocolate Ice Cream.
Jack & Eddie’s Black Pudding: Tradition and Taste
Ray O’Malley’s Jack & Eddie’s Black Pudding also earned a bronze award. Produced using a secret family recipe on a farm located between Westport, County Mayo, and Leenane, County Galway, the pudding represents a continuation of traditional Irish culinary practices.
Food Academy: Supporting Irish Producers
Food Academy is a producer development program accredited by Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) as a Certificate in Entrepreneurship. it’s a collaborative effort between SuperValu and the Local Enterprise Offices (leos), designed to nurture and promote Irish food and drink businesses. Since its inception in 2013, Food Academy producers have collectively generated €260 million in sales through SuperValu stores. SuperValu Food Academy
Looking Ahead
The success of these mayo producers underscores the vibrancy of the Irish food sector.With the continued support of initiatives like Food Academy and the recognition provided by awards like Blás na hÉireann, Irish food and drink producers are well-positioned for future growth and innovation.