Belfast food innovators among Northern Ireland winners at BBC Food and Farming Awards
Belfast-based food innovators Sean McDermott and Rory Blight have been recognised at the BBC Food and Farming Awards 2026, held in Northern Ireland for the first time.
The pair, associated with Keen 2B Green and Source Grow, received the BBC Radio Ulster Food Hero Award during Wednesday evening’s ceremony at Titanic Belfast.
County Tyrone farmer Bronagh O’Kane also celebrated success, winning the Farming for the Future Award.
Belfast food innovators receive special award
The BBC Radio Ulster Food Hero Award was introduced as a special category for 2026.
It recognises individuals helping to provide high-quality, locally produced and seasonal food that reflects Northern Ireland’s distinctive food identity.
Sean McDermott and Rory Blight were selected as the winners, with Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir presenting the award.
The Minister praised their contribution to food production, community development and environmental sustainability.
County Tyrone farmer wins Farming for the Future Award
Bronagh O’Kane, who farms near Cookstown, received the Farming for the Future Award.
The award recognises forward-thinking approaches to agriculture and the development of more sustainable farming practices.
Mr Muir congratulated Ms O’Kane on her achievement, describing the recognition as evidence of innovation and leadership within Northern Ireland agriculture.
Historic awards ceremony at Titanic Belfast
The BBC Food and Farming Awards were staged in Northern Ireland for the first time in their 26-year history.
The ceremony brought together food producers, farmers and businesses from across the United Kingdom.
Northern Ireland was represented in several categories, with local finalists including Crawford’s Rock Seaweed from Kilkeel, Ballyboley Dexters from Greyabbey and Broighter Gold Rapeseed Oil from Limavady.
Mourne Mountains Brewery and Shortcross Distillery were also among the Northern Ireland finalists.
Mr Muir said hosting the ceremony in Belfast provided an opportunity to showcase the quality, innovation and ambition of Northern Ireland’s food and farming sector.
He congratulated the winners and finalists on their achievements and the recognition they had received.
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