Keelings Fruit nominated for Irish Food Awards

"Fruit snack packs filled distinct gap in Irish market"

One of Ireland's biggest berry producers, Keelings, has been nominated for the 2016 Blas nah Eireann awards (Irish Food Awards). The awards are judged by a blind taste test and research has shown that Irish consumers prefer to buy products with the Blas accreditation and award logos on their packs.

Keelings have gained a lot of attention for their snack pots, which were launched in 2013 after the company said it had identified a distinct gap in the market place for healthy, on the go, fresh fruit portions.

"Prior to its launch, consumers told us that they wanted to achieve their '5 a day' but were sometimes confused by this message, and needed convenient solutions. We hope that Snack Pots makes eating healthily a little more achievable for our consumers." shared Sinead Breen from Keelings.

Starting off with strawberries, the snack pot range now includes blueberries, baby strawberries, mixed berries and grapes, in addition to seasonal lines such as Santini Tomatoes and Cherries. They are available in both single pots and as a multipack, which was recently launched.

"We find that Snack Pots appeal to two types of consumers. The first is the consumer who is looking for convenience and healthy snacking on the go, and the other is the mums and dads, who chose them for children’s lunch boxes. Kids seem to love the concept of individual snacking pots." said Sinead.

Keelings grow their strawberries in greenhouses and said that they are always in a state of development, trying new methods and testing new varieties. By doing so, they have been able to extend the Irish growing season from March to November. Sinead said that rain will always make things a little more difficult, but Ireland has an ideal climate for growing strawberries.

"We will use Irish Baby Strawberries from our Farm whenever they are available. Beyond that, we will source from wherever the best quality is available at that moment, depending on the time of year and where the best quality is coming from." said Sinead.

Winners of the Blas nah Eireann will be announced in Dingle, Ireland on Saturday 1st of October.

For more information:
Sinead Breen
Keelings Fruit
Tel: +353 1 813 5600
Fax: +353 1 813 5638
Email: retail@keelings.com
www.keelings.ie

Publication date: Fri 16 Sep 2016