The South West region is known not only for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture but also for its delectable cuisine. With an abundance of fresh ingredients, diverse culinary traditions, and a thriving community of local producers and businesses, the South West has established itself as a hub of gastronomic excellence.
In this piece, we explore why we believe that the UK's best food is produced in the South West and highlight the importance of supporting our local producers and businesses across Somerset, Devon and Cornwall.
Rich Agricultural Heritage: The South West boasts a rich agricultural heritage, blessed with fertile soil and a favorable climate. These natural advantages have enabled the region to cultivate an array of high-quality produce, including succulent meats, flavorful fruits and vegetables, and artisanal cheeses. From the rolling hills of Devon to the lush vineyards of Somerset, the South West's diverse landscape contributes to the exceptional flavors found in its food.
Plowright Organic have been organic growers based in Somerset for over 20 years. Based on an 80 acre organic vegetable farm on the Quantock Hills in Somerset, they deliver veg boxes across Somerset and in to Bristol.
Alder Vineyard produce delicious wine from their vines on the edge of Dartmoor. They strive to demystify the world of wine, so that we can all share a love for English wine, far beyond the bottle.
Riviera Produce is one of the UK’s leading growers of Brassica’s such as Cauliflower and other vegetables including Courgettes. They supply the major supermarkets across the UK for 12 months of the year, all from their family farm in Cornwall.
Locally Sourced Ingredients: Supporting local producers means enjoying the freshest and most flavoursome ingredients. By choosing food from the West Country, consumers can relish in the knowledge that their meals are made with ingredients sourced from nearby farms, fisheries, and orchards. Additionally, the reduced travel time from farm to plate ensures optimal freshness and flavour, while also minimising the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation. We'd call that a win-win.
The Cornish Food Box Company work with more than 250 Cornish farmers and food producers to stock all the goodies you would expect - from cauliflowers, pasties and clotted cream to relishes, curry pastes and foraged liquors.
The Thoroughly Wild Meat Company was established in 2003 by husband and wife team Andrew & Lavinia Moore. They take an old-fashioned approach to butchery, sourcing from hand-picked suppliers, only buying the best animals they can find.
Devon Quaity Fish is a local, family run business operating from Exmouth, Devon since 1975. The majority of their fish is local produce either caught by their own boat 'The Two Brothers' or purchased daily from Brixham fish market.
Preserving Culinary Traditions: The South West is renowned for its culinary traditions, deeply rooted in the region's history and culture. From Cornish pasties and Somerset cider to Devon cream teas and Dorset seafood, each dish tells a story and carries the essence of the South West. By supporting local producers and businesses, we contribute to the preservation of these time-honored recipes and techniques, allowing future generations to savor the authentic flavors of the region.
Sheppy's Cider, based between Taunton and Wellington in Somerset is a well-known name not just in the South West, but across the World. Shoppe's is a family-run farm that’s been lovingly crafting premium award-winning craft ciders for over 200 years, making us one of the oldest independent cider makers in the world.
In 1969, dairy farmer Geoffrey Ginster began baking Cornish pasties in an almost derelict egg packing barn in the Cornish town of Callington. Fast forward to now, and Ginster's has come a long way. However, their Cornish heritage remains firmly at the heart of the brand. They are strong supporters of the Cornish community and are proud to source local ingredients, from Hay Farm, in their products.
The Devon Scone Company was born out of a desire to provide the ‘proper’ ingredients for a quality Devon cream tea wherever you are, by Richard Hunt and Claire Bennett. Starting out with the traditional, hand-made scones, the Devon Scone Company has since expanded into producing home-made jams and preserves to accompany this classic Devon produce to create the 'perfect Devon Cream Tea experience'. Its quality products can be found across the South West in farm shops, delis and tea rooms.
Sustainable Practices: Many local producers and businesses in the South West prioritize sustainable practices, promoting the wellbeing of the environment and local communities. They employ responsible farming techniques, prioritize organic and fair-trade certifications, and implement waste reduction strategies. By supporting these ethical practices, consumers can enjoy their meals with the knowledge that they are making a positive impact on the planet and supporting the livelihoods of local farmers and artisans.
The Field Bakery was created by baker Rosy Benson, in collaboration with Fred Price, the farmer behind Gothelney Farm. The bakery has a big focus on future resilience, and through her own journey of working in bakeries and visiting mills and farms in the UK and North America, who specialise in using fresh milled regional grains, Rosie is ready to help build a movement of environmentally engaged bakers.
Celebrating 40 years of cheesemaking in 2021, Sharpham Dairy hand make a small range of award-winning English cheeses. In April 2022, Sharpham Dairy become the very first UK dairy cheesemaker to become a certified B Corporation - meaning they meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
The Real Food Garden produces sustainably grown vegetables using agroecological principles and working in harmony with nature. Their food is grown without the use of any chemicals, in ways which improve the soil and foster biodiversity and as such, their dedication to sustainable food production was recently recognised at the Cornwall Sustainability Awards.
Strengthening the Local Economy: When we choose to support local producers and businesses, we contribute to the growth and vitality of the South West's economy. The success of these enterprises creates employment opportunities, fosters entrepreneurship, and encourages innovation within the region. Additionally, the revenue generated stays within the local economy, creating a ripple effect that benefits other sectors, such as tourism and hospitality.
In conclusion, we'd say that the South West stands as a culinary treasure trove, offering a tantalising array of flavours and experiences. By supporting local producers and businesses, we not only indulge in the finest food the region has to offer but also help sustain its cultural heritage, protect the environment, and bolster the local economy.
So, let us celebrate the culinary delights of the South West and savor each bite knowing that we are making a difference.
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