Record number of products unveiled at TasteWales

The milestone has been reached in part thanks to initiatives put in place by Food & Drink Wales over recent years, such as the Cluster Network approach that brings like-minded businesses together to share best practice and develop new ideas. This has been boosted further by the support on offer to start-ups by Cywain and the innovation-focused Project HELIX programme.

The new products to be launched vary widely and include new yogurts, baked products, new food service offers and product packaging. Some of the food world’s leading speakers and thinkers will be taking part in the event and accompanying conference, as Welsh food and drink continues to develop its reputation on the international stage.

It was announced last year that industry giant Princes has been unveiled as headline sponsor, with a range of other companies lending support for the largest showcase of Welsh food and drink ever put together. Speakers include Claus Meyer, whose Noma restaurant has been named the world’s best on four occasions.

Commenting ahead of BlasCymru/TasteWales, Welsh Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, Lesley Griffiths (pictured), said: “We can clearly see that the extra support given in the food and drink industry over recent years, from a Cluster Network approach through to food innovation and start-up programmes, continues to help the industry in leading the way in new innovative products. With the challenge of Brexit it is more important than ever we support Welsh food and drink businesses in every way we can and help ensure their future sustainability. Surpassing 100 new products to be launched during the event makes it an added celebration of what Wales has to offer both to the domestic and international marketplace.”

One of the companies launching new products at TasteWales is pioneering vegetarian and vegan business, The Parsnipship Ltd. Commenting on their plans, Director Flo Ticehurst said: “We have four new lines coming out, two veggie and two vegan burgers. We were inspired to start our business after years of being disappointed at the meagre offerings available for vegetarians and vegans. The upcoming trade event is a great time to showcase some new products as well as our wider offer.”