Athlone based Bonny Bó named as Blas na hÉireann finalist

Athlone based Bonny Bó is one of five producers from County Westmeath who have been announced as finalists at Blas na hÉireann, the Irish Food Awards 2025, taking place in Dingle, County Kerry, from October 2-5.

Selling milk directly to the public through a self-service vending machine, the business is owned by Francis and Eimear Nally from Clonbonny.

Fellow finalists from the county who have been shortlisted from a range of categories, are Fore Distillery Limited, Killucan Honey Beekeeping, Our Creamery and The Irish Craft Soda Company.

“LEO Westmeath are delighted to once again work with Blas na hÉireann to award the best of Westmeath food producers,” said Tracey Tallon, head of Enterprise at LEO Westmeath.

“There are a number of new and exciting entries from our food businesses producing innovative products, this year the diverse range of products highlights the wealth of impressive offerings across our county.”

Now in its 18th year, Blas na hÉireann drew more than 3,000 entries including a record number of new producers. There are now 190 categories, including in fast-evolving areas such as alcoholic drinks and their non-alcoholic alternatives.

The judging, which took place over May, June and July in partnership with UCC and TU Dublin, is blind-tasted and scored by a network of experts, including chefs, buyers, academics, restaurateurs, and industry leaders.

At this year’s Blas na hÉireann weekend, the Eat Ireland in a Day market and the Blas Village return. There, 2025 finalists can showcase their products, connect with buyers, and meet fellow producers, media and food lovers from.

With sustainability at the forefront once again, this year’s event will continue to build on its environmentally friendly policies and support a more conscious future for Irish food.

Making it as a finalist is a significant achievement. The competition intensifies every year, and the producers shortlisted represent the best of Irish food and drink.