An Award to the Best South African Producers: Nominations Are Open

The search for the best producers in South Africa is underway. Nominations for the Eat Out Zonnebloem Produce Awards 2014, which celebrate the achievements of outstanding food producers and businesses, have recently opened.

Awards for the best local food blog will also be given and voting for this category opened today. Nominations have been submitted and the following eight finalists have been selected:

A Foodie Lives Here  
The Food Fox  
Food with a Story
Food-Blog The Kate Tin  
Life is a Zoo Biscuit 
Real Men Can Cook 
Sardines on Toast 
Simply Delicious

You can vote for your favorite blog here. The winners will be announced on April 12th at the Stellenbosch Slow Market at Oude Libertas Estate in Stellenbosch. Sponsored by S.Pellegrino, the Eat Out Zonnebloem Produce Awards 2014 honor outstanding, independent South African producers, food markets and outlets in the following categories:

• Best new product Best small producer: grocery/condiment

• Best small producer: dairy (cheese)

• Best small producer: dairy (other)

• Best small producer: paddock (fresh)
• Best small producer: paddock (cured)
• Best small producer: earth
• Best small producer: seafood
• Best small producer: confectionery
• Best small producer: bread or baked goods
• Best organic or free-range producer
• South African food heritage award
• Outstanding markets: South; East & North
• Outstanding outlets: South; East & North
• Best local food blog

Nominees are being evaluated according to the quality of their products and whether they are primarily grown or crafted in South Africa. Shortlisted nominees that meet these criteria will be invited to submit their produce for judging by a panel.