Scottish salmon takes centre stage at Gulfood 2012
The major culinary competition hosted annually at Gulfood, one of the world's largest annual food and hospitality shows, with 3800 exhibitors and 62,000 delegates, which will be hosted in Dubai from 19th to 22nd February.
Open to professional chefs, pastry chefs, cooks and bakers, the competition comprises 22 different sections, Label Rouge Scottish Salmon is to sponsor the Fish and Seafood Class of the competition.
Although originally dedicated to the French market, Label Rouge Scottish Salmon has acquired international recognition for its superior quality and taste, as demand continues to grow not just in established markets, but increasingly in new and emerging markets. Exports of the premium salmon have increased year-on-year since 2008, reaching 7,743 tonnes - a record - in 2010.
Scotland's involvement in Gulfood extends to a dedicated Scottish pavilion hosted by Scottish Development International, on behalf of Scotland Food & Drink, which will include fourteen exhibitors who will showcase a range of internationally recognised goods and produce This will be Scotland's largest commitment to Gulfood to date.
Scott Landsburgh, chief executive of the Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation (SSPO), said, "We are delighted to be returning to one of the world's most exciting cities. Dubai is internationally recognised as a five star destination that understands the value and importance of a quality experience. Food is an important part of this equation and Scottish salmon is increasingly attracting levels of interest and take up from the extensive array of top quality hotels in the UAE and around the region. Chefs are our strongest supporters and their understanding of the quality of our salmon is what is driving its success with diners in the Middle East."
Supporting Scotland as a "Land of Food and Drink", Richard Lochhead MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Environment in the Scottish Government said: "The Middle East is a key target market for the Scottish food and beverage industry. Not only is demand increasing significantly for Scottish goods and produce in this part of the world, but we are also seeing significant interest form regional investors into the sector. We look forward to the many opportunities that Gulfood will bring and wish everyone every success with the Emirates Salon Culinaire competition."
