The Irish Seed Savers Association (ISSA) won the Community Food Award for its heritage apple juice on Tuesday, March 4, hosted by the The Irish Food Writers’ Guild (IFWG).

The IFWG celebrated excellence in the Irish food industry at its annual awards at the Ananda restaurant in Dundrum, Co. Dublin on Tuesday, March 4.

The IFWG was founded to promote and celebrate Ireland’s vibrant food culture. The group's annual food awards recognize individuals, businesses, and organizations that demonstrate excellence, sustainability, and commitment to Ireland’s food industry.

The ISSA won the award for its heritage apple juice and its dedication to preserving Ireland’s food crop heritage.

The ISSA said that its award-winning apple juice represents more than just a delicious and refreshing drink, it is a tribute to Ireland’s rich agricultural legacy.

The ISSA stated that beyond its taste, the apple juice embodies a commitment to sustainability and food security, by utilizing the full harvest, it combats food waste while educating communities on sustainable growing practices.

The preservation of the heritage apple varieties plays a crucial role in protecting biodiversity and ensuring that traditional Irish food practices continue to thrive for future generations.

The ISSA said the global food system faces unprecedented challenges due to climate change, biodiversity loss, and industrial agricultural practices, and that genetic diversity is a natural solution to these crises, yet it is under severe threat.

With changes in land use, urbanization, soil degradation, the widespread use of chemicals, and market-driven crop preferences, the risk of losing vital food crop varieties is growing.

Irish seed savers began as a small farm in Co. Carlow in the early 1990s and is now based on a 20ac organic farm in Co. Clare.