As the search for local food producers in the North Antrim and Causeway area continues, the focus has now shifted to the Ballymoney area.  In a joint initiative to find out more about the local food economy of the area and who our local food producers are, Ballymoney Borough Council has been working closely with Coleraine Borough Council, Limavady Borough Council and Moyle District Council to develop a local produce database for the region.

Through local produce initiatives such as the Origins Farmer’s Market, Menu of Moyle and the Country Markets network, we have learned that there is an incredibly diverse range of fresh, local produce available across the four council areas.  So far, our research has uncovered a great selection of producers with an exciting array of produce to offer including fresh local seafood, meat, poultry, eggs, vegetables and dairy produce, as well as confectionary, home-baked goods, preserves and beverages and we are keen to find out more! 

So, if you’re a local producer in the Ballymoney Borough or surrounding area who offers fresh, home-grown, farm-produced or home-made products, please get in touch with us so we can add you to our list. 

With the importance of buying ‘local food’ becoming an increasingly recognised issue, there is a growing understanding among consumers about the benefits of buying locally.  We are all beginning to understand that purchasing direct from local producers not only helps us ensure our food is fresh, nutritious, tasty and traceable, but by buying in this way we also support our local businesses and benefit our local economy – which is even more important in current challenging times.  When you send us the details of your produce we will add your information to our database of local producers - providing the basis for the future highlighting and promotion of our region’s local food (possibly through the production of a ‘Producer’s Directory’ and other potential marketing initiatives). 

To register your interest in being included in the local producers database, or if you would like to find out more about the research being carried out, simply contact Deirdre McNeill at Moyle District Council on (028) 2076 2225 or email dmcneill@moyle-council.org.  Please click HERE for more information and to download an expression of interest form.