From the UK’s first carbon-neutral potatoes to plant-based desserts and alcohol free botanic drinks, Welsh Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths has announced more than 200 new food and drink products will be showcased by Welsh businesses at BlasCymru/TasteWales.

The number of products developed during what has been an incredibly challenging year is clear proof of the resilience and innovation within the sector in Wales.

The event is taking place at the International Convention Centre (ICC Wales) in Newport and provides a crucial platform for producers from across Wales to show their products to trade buyers from retail, foodservice and export consolidators from across the UK.

A virtual meet is also being arranged with the international buyers following the event.

Further new products, which have been produced over the last 12 months, include new yoghurt flavours, seasonal craft ales, a range of flavoured oat crackers, organic fermented smoked kraut and Beet Slaw packaged in sustainable, fully recycled packaging.

‘The resilience and innovative spirit’

Rural Affairs Minister, Lesley Griffiths, said:

“I am incredibly proud of our fantastic food and drink sector and for over 200 new products to be developed, as we have dealt with the Covid-19 pandemic, clearly shows the resilience and innovative spirit which runs throughout Welsh producers.

It has been been a challenging time for everyone in the industry, but the response of our businesses has been nothing short of magnificent.

“It is great this year’s BlasCymru/TasteWales is going ahead and today’s news shows how much Wales has to offer both at home and abroad and I’m sure buyers from will be impressed with what they see.

“The Welsh government will continue to support the food and drink sector as we recover from the pandemic and I look forward to seeing more new products being made in Wales and enjoyed around the globe.”