PRODUCEDINKENT
TASTE OF KENT AWARDS 2021
FOLLOWING THE FIRST-EVER VIRTUAL CEREMONY , THE WINNERS OF PRODUCED IN KENT ’ S TASTE OF KENT AWARDS 2021 , HAVE BEEN REVEALED …
Organised by Produced in Kent as the annual showcase of the very best products and food and drink businesses across Kent and Medway , this year ’ s Taste of Kent Awards was live-streamed to its largest ever audience on Tuesday 11th May . In a year of firsts , the judges were looking for the best tasting creations across the county , from producers , growers , hospitality , and retailers , and a winner in the newest category to join the line-up : Kent Sustainable Food & Drink Award .
This year ’ s awards saw a 300 % increase in voters compared to last year . This three-fold increase in people casting their votes reflects the significant increase in interest and understanding of local food since the pandemic , and presented the judges with a tough time in choosing the winners .
“ In the past year , our local independent food and drink industry has proven its pivotal role in our rural economy ” comments Floortje Hoette , chief executive of Produced in Kent . “ Providing jobs , looking after the countryside , being an advocate for sustainable practices , continuing to grow , make , sell and serve the best food and drink to residents and visitors under very challenging circumstances whilst giving back to the community .
“ Winning an award presents new opportunities for both the winners and finalists , all of whom have worked so hard to get this far . The pandemic has created momentum for the local independent food and drink sector – the public wants to know where its food and drink is coming from and how it has been produced . The Taste of Kent Awards are a public endorsement of one ’ s business and the quality of one ’ s product – and that will help drive sales ”.
The judges ’ interviews with the finalists were intense and really highlighted the levels of stress , desperation and financial pain the sector has endured over the past year , whilst also demonstrating its resilience , entrepreneurial spirit and positivity .
“ The whole process made for an extra-ordinary and at times emotional judging experience ” comments Hoette . “ It really made everyone realise , once again , how incredibly hard businesses have worked to get through the pandemic , and the huge potential for success the sector has going forward .
“ Produced in Kent is immensely proud to represent local food and drink , and looks forward to continuing to help the sector grow in the coming years . A special thank you to the sponsors of this year ’ s event , without which the finalists would not have had their moment in the limelight and the awards would not have been possible .”
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