Wales focuses on food, health, nutrition and growth

The food and drink industry in Wales was given a significant boost this month to reach its ambitious 2020 target of annual sales growth to £7billion (30% increase). The three food centres in Wales have signed a memorandum of understanding to facilitate increased co-operation and co-ordination under a fledgling brand recently unveiled, titled Food Innovation Wales.

As Welsh food technologists converged for the second year running at Food Matters Live, held in London over 17 – 19 November 2015, a range of companies were present to showcase how Wales is increasingly innovating and becoming a testing ground for food innovation and new product development.

A range of food and drink businesses were present again this year under the Food & Drink Wales banner from gluten free marshmallows through to the use of superfood chia berry in snack bars.

Welsh Government Deputy Minister for Food & Farming, Rebecca Evans AM, welcomed the increased presence at this year’s show and said: “It is fitting that Food and Drink Wales and Food Innovation Wales have a strong presence at Food Matters Live. This cross-sector event brings together professionals from across the industry to address one of the most important challenges of our time: the relationship between food, health, and nutrition and their connections with the environment, population health and wellbeing. We as a government recognise the vital role food innovation can play in contributing to a range of health and wellbeing issues while also increasing economic growth through ensuring Wales is the home of genuine high-quality, well researched, food and drink innovation.”

One producer who attended the event was Anglesey based, Plas Farm – Business Development Director Rhian Williams stated: “What makes this show stand out from the others is that not only are you dealing with the buyers and gaining potential business but also attending seminars for CPD purposes which allows my staff to become more aware of trends and gives them practical advice based on real-life experiences.”

For further information about Food and Drink Wales go to www.gov.wales/foodanddrinkwales