Event brings together the cream of the crop

A Produced in Northumberland trade event was held in Morpeth Town Hall, giving those who make, use and promote food and drink produced in the county the chance to enjoy tastings, demonstrations and workshops.

The event, organised by Active Northumberland and Northumberland County Council, attracted producers, chefs, specialist retailers and those in the hospitality business.

A workshop was held to generate ideas for business growth. There were food and drink tasters, a cooking demonstration and the chance to network with some of Northumberland’s best food and drink businesses.

Business specialists were also on hand to offer advice and assistance.

Produced in Northumberland recognises producers and businesses which use and promote county-made food and drink.

Producers who want to be part of the scheme have to prove to visiting Public Health Protection Unit staff that the food and drink is made in Northumberland. For butchers, checks are also carried out on the origin of the animals from which their meat comes.

B&Bs and other hospitality businesses have to demonstrate that a certain number of main foods being used on their menus is produced in the county while retailers have to ensure a proportion of food and drink that’s made in Northumberland by a variety of different producers.

Businesses can then display the Produced in Northumberland certificate in their shop, restaurant or B&B, and use the scheme’s logo.