Our judging panel of industry experts has selected the products best suited to the growing demand for new flavours and healthier options. Meet the winners of this year's Excellence in Food & Drink Awards
Customer expectations are rising, competition is fierce and food service operators need a point of difference in their offering. Sourcing the right products is paramount, and at the 2007 Caterer and Hotelkeeper Excellence in Food & Drink Awards, in association with 3663 First for Foodservice, we're proud to shine a light on products that deliver that bit extra in terms of taste, appearance and usability.
It's only right that the manufacturers and suppliers of these products be applauded for the role they play in delivering the dining experience and in the diner's enjoyment of that experience. After all, a happy customer is one that will return and will spread the word among friends and colleagues, boosting business for the operator.
Provenance and authenticity are now key words in our industry, with the origin of ingredients increasingly loudly declared on menus. Customers want to know where the steak they're eating was reared and that the recipe for the sauce poured over their pasta is indeed what Italians cook at home. Additionally, there has never been a greater demand on kitchens to cater for those with allergies and other dietary requirements.
Products that fulfil the needs of a busy food operation are invaluable, and our judges have munched and slurped their way through dozens of food and drink items to bring the cream of the crop to you. Our congratulations go to all our winners.
Diane Lane
Suppliers and products editor
The sponsor
Suppliers are the unsung heroes of the catering world. While celebrity chefs are splashed across magazines, newspapers and TV screens, the companies that make the products so many chefs rely on are pushed to one side.
For the fifth year, 3663 First for Foodservice is delighted to sponsor the Excellence in Food & Drink Awards, which aim to redress the balance.
3663 chief executive Fred Barnes said: "We are pleased to congratulate the winners on their success at this year's awards. The overwhelming response has made it clear that the industry is collectively keen on development, quality and variety. We have seen a surge of innovative products that look to bring ideal menu solutions to the market. 3663 is committed to the provision of excellence, both in the products we source and the customer service we deliver.
"This year's event has brought together an increased number of manufacturers and distributors in its pursuit of excellence across all sectors of the industry, and we offer our best wishes and praise, not only for these winners, but also for each and every entrant that has excelled."
The winners
The links below will take you to the winners and their shortlisted peers in each category:
Accompaniments and Ingredients
Cheese, Dairy and Milk Products
Meat, Game, Poultry and Fish
Bakery and Sandwiches
Impulse Snacking
Desserts and Puddings
Ice-cream
Soft Drinks and Juices
Starters and Buffet Products
Main Courses and Centre of Plate
Healthy, Organic and Ethical
Vegetarian
Hot Beverages - Coffee
Hot Beverages - Tea
Alcoholic Drinks
Kids' Main Meals
Kids' Snacks
Kids' Drinks