With a total of 15 categories, the awards, now in their 17th year, recognise the very best products, food and drink experiences, outstanding retailers and businesses demonstrating sustainability, quality and diversity.
Winners ranged from classic Highland heroes such as whisky and salmon to creative innovations such as seaweed crisps and barrel aged beer.
Chair of the judging panel, Elaine Jamieson, head of food and drink and life sciences at Highlands and Islands Enterprise, said:
“Congratulations to all winners and finalists who represent the very best in world class products and services from the Highlands and Islands. After a two-year absence, the Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards is back with a record-breaking number of entries each of an exceptional calibre.
“Selecting the winners was a difficult task for the judging panel. The quality of products, the degree of innovation and the drive on sustainability shone through the entries and was really exciting to see. It was particularly positive to see a large number of entries for the eatery categories given the difficult trading conditions during the pandemic and the Awards truly celebrated the return of the region’s hospitality industry. Of course, the backbone of all of this is the people who work in the sector and the event is a important occasion to celebrate them.
Winner of Ambassador of the Year, Gilpin Bradley, added:
“I am incredibly honoured to have received this award and delighted that it will give me further opportunities to promote awareness of these awards, the sector, and it’s importance to the economy of the Highlands and Islands throughout the coming year; in my position as Ambassador.
“The resilience, innovation and passion within the Highlands and Islands food and drink industry never fails to impress and inspire and I offer my congratulations to all of the winners and finalists.”
Follow the Highlands & Islands Food & Drink Awards on social media to keep up to date with the latest news and announcements. Find them on @hifooddrink on Twitter and Facebook.
For further information and for a list of winners, visit www.hifoodanddrinkawards.com