North and north-east firms figure prominently among the finalists for the 2014 Scotland Food and Drink Excellence Awards.
A total of 45 producers from throughout the country are on the final shortlist, with winners in 21 award categories being announced at a ceremony in Edinburgh on Thursday, May 22.
Honours up for grabs include Scottish food and drink entrepreneur of the year and two new awards, for sourcing and brand success.
Highlands and islands finalists include the Isle of Skye Sea Salt Company, Gigha Halibut, the Argyll Smokery, Loch Fyne Oysters, Angelic Gluten Free, Amhuinnsuidhe Castle Estate Products, Lerwick Brewery, Shetland Cheese, Intersea Food Scotland, Island Bakery Organics, the The Ethical Shellfish Company, Eileandubh Restaurant and Frankie’s Fish & Chips.
North-east businesses hoping for success in the annual food and drink “Oscars” include Berry Scrumptious, Pulsetta Foods Mackie’s of Scotland – through its Mackie’s at Taypack joint venture – and Dean’s of Huntly.
Judges tasted 115 food and drink entries and examined submissions from 102 businesses across Scotland for deciding on their final 45.
The honours are organised by industry leadership group Scotland Food and Drink (SFD) in partnership with the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS).
SFD chief executive James Withers, said: “These awards celebrate the best of Scottish food and drink products and businesses, recognising the quality of produce and excellence in a range of fields from innovation to sustainability and the development of health initiatives.
“Feedback from the judges was very positive and the standard of entries was high across the board.
“Entries have come from individuals, artisan producers and global brands reflecting the wide variety of our food and drink companies as well as their strengths and expertise.
“All play their part in the continued development and growth of the industry, to a value of £16.5billion by 2017.”
RHASS chief executive Stephen Hutt added: “To be shortlisted is a huge achievement and congratulations must be awarded to all those who have been selected.”