February 2006

Scotland's International FOOD Fair

Scotland’s International Food Fair, SECC took place from 22-25 January 2006

Stepping into Scotland’s International Trade fair is somewhat overwhelming. There are more than 500 exhibitors selling hundreds of products (mainly Scottish themed) to the trade. The International Food Fair is an oasis of peace in one part of the exhibition hall. For the second year, this expanding section of the Fair proves an interesting place to sample what your local deli might be stocking in the coming months. Whilst there are still rather too many jams and preserves, it was pleasing to note some new tastes and ideas.

Some foods may not yet have reached your local food store, why not ask the manager if they intend to stock them?

Gillies Fine Foods

When you are designated driver, or just don’t want to drink alcohol, what options to you have? Often it can be as limited as coca cola or water. Bars and restaurants should consider stocking the Very Berry range – delicious and good for you! In Raspberry, Blackcurrant, Aronia & Raspberry, Aronia & Bramble flavours.

Chesters of St Andrews

Chesters of St Andrews Chesters Potato Farm crisps are savoury and not too salty. The Haggis flavour on parsnip are exceptional.

Highland Truffle Company

The company has just started importing high cocoa content chocolate from individual countries which are beautifully fragrant. Their dark chocolate disks with toasted nuts and fruits are a perfect accompaniment to a dinner part. A very basic website, but their products are definitely worth pursuing.

El Olivio Oils

Winner of Silver and Bronze Great Taste Awards in 2005, this range of Spanish Oils is graded in depth of taste and complexity. I particularly liked the OLIFLIX a first cold stone pressed organic extra virgin olive oils made 100 % from the renowned Arbequina olives grown in the region of Catalonia in the north east of the country.

The Cocoa Bean Company

Claire Beck’s range of handmade Belgian chocolates come in a range of enchanting shapes and tastes (imagine chocolate and summer fruits) - including some fun praline “spoons”. Many items are made using Fairtrade chocolate

We Make Pots

A wee digression from food, to crockery. We Make Pots have a beautiful range of pots with feet including quirky tea pots and cappuccino cups and sushi platters.