Food for thought

Baboons have wiped out a crop of grapes at a South African vineyard. Decanter reports that bush fires in the surrounding mountains had driven the some 50 baboons into the Franschhoek Valley wine region in search of food sources.
One vineyard owner said that the baboons were going through some three tonnes of crops a day, equivalent to 2000 bottles and thus resulting in a loss of almost 40% of his crop. The baboons have centred their efforts on pinot noir growers as they are situated on the higher slopes in the region.

Bacon and cabbage shines as Ireland’s favourite dish

Bacon and cabbage is still a firm favourite among Irish food lovers. A recent survey has heralded the dish as remaining true to tradition and thus holding top spot. Aramark surveyed customers and staff in a bid to find out the favourite traditional dish and to mark the launch of ‘Celebrate Irish Food Fortnight’, a campaign to promote the use of Irish sourced produce.
While the majority of respondents (41%) favoured the Bacon & Cabbage option, 34% would choose Irish stew as their favourite Irish recipe.
78% of those surveyed enjoy preparing traditional Irish food dishes at home signalling that people still enjoy hearty wholesome Irish home cooking.
Of those surveyed, 72% are conscious of buying Irish produce.
Aramark officials noted that the hoped the campaign would help to raise awareness of the importance of sourcing locally produced food.
They said that we all have a role to play in supporting the local economy and it is great to see that the majority of survey participants are conscious of buying Irish and supporting local producers.

Spring is on its way; Winter hopefully on its way out, and along with it our need for stodgy warming dishes. This deliciously light recipe for Blueberry Cheesecake is in fact originally from Finland, where they certainly know a thing or two about using their abundance of berries. In the soft fruit season, you can use gooseberries, redcurrants, raspberries equally effectively to create this spectacular dessert.