Local food businesses win accolade

THREE local food businesses are celebrating for being recognised in this year’s Great Taste Awards.

Mackenzie’s Farm Shop & Café in Cunningsburgh, Scalloway-based Shetland Sea Salt and Thule Ventus in Cunningsburgh have all received the highly respected seals of approval.

Donella Gray, who makes the relish in the Mackenzie’s farm kitchen, at last year’s Taste of Shetland event. Photo: Shetland Food and Drink

Donella Gray, who makes the relish in the Mackenzie’s farm kitchen, at last year’s Taste of Shetland event. Photo: Shetland Food and Drink

The team at Mackenzie’s said they were “on cloud nine” after their spiced tomato and pepper relish product was awarded two stars.

Thule Ventus owner David Polson featured in James Martin’s ITV programme about the islands earlier this year.

His range of hand-crafted salt cod products, using sustainable produce from small, family-owned Shetland boats, has been growing in popularity and Thule Ventus’ salt cod pate has received a star for a second year.

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Meanwhile, mother-and-daughter team Kaye Sandison and Laura Hughes were delighted to have retained one star for a second successive year for their nutrient rich and hand-harvested Shetland Sea Salt.

Organised by the Guild of Fine Food, the Great Taste Awards are selected by a panel of over 500 expert chefs, buyers, food writers and retailers.

Shetland Food & Drink chairwoman Marian Armitage said: “Congratulations to all three of these hard-working local businesses. These prestigious awards are richly deserved and are a great boost and inspiration in this challenging year.”