Food and drink finalists unveiled

Aquascot Ltd, Lossie Seafoods, Cairngorm Smokehouse and Wester Ross Fisheries are all among the finalists for the awards. Judged by a panel of industry experts from across the sector, the winning entries will be revealed at an Awards Dinner, featuring produce from throughout the Highlands and Islands, to be held at the Drumossie Hotel, Inverness, on Friday, 23 October 2009. 

The Awards, sponsored by Williamson Foodservice, organised by the Highlands & Islands Food & Drink Forum, and supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Scotland Food & Drink, celebrate excellence and achievement in the area's food and drink industry. 

Entries have been shortlisted for 10 award categories recognising high standards and exceptional quality. New for 2009 is the Young Ambassador of the Year Award, acknowledging the important role of young people in the industry. 

Other categories reward successful new products and businesses, innovation, promotion of healthy living, good environmental practice, commitment to local produce, and individual achievement.