The Oscars may be over, the post-mortem of the stars’ dresses done and dusted, but foodies in SA are gearing up for the 2011 SAB Eat In Produce Awards. The awards, to be announced next Thursday, the 17th March, will name the country’s best small producers in the categories of baked goods, dairy, grocery and condiments, earth, paddock and seafood. Other awards up for grabs include an innovation award, an award for best supplier or outlet, one for best in organic practices, best new product, and a South African food heritage award.

“These are producers that deliver a consistently high quality product that is SA grown or developed using primary produce from SA” say the judges, “Due care and consideration for both the environment and workforce are essential criteria.”

This year, the judges include Eat In editor, Anelde Greeff, along with Justine Drake, Anna Trapido, Pete Goffe-Wood and Michelle Barry.

The awards will take place at Woodstock’s Old Biscuit Mill, in conjunction with a fabulous night market, showcasing produce from the top food producers across SA. Among the treats on offer, there will be pickles and preserves from Quality Pickles, meat from Braeside Meat Market, bread from Knead, cheese from Buffalo Ridge and Swissland Cheese.  There’ll also be two specially brewed craft beers, made locally with Newlands spring water by SAB, and an opportunity to learn about food and beer pairing.  Musician David Ferguson will be performing.

The occasion will also mark the launch of this year’s edition of Eat In magazine, listing 850 of the best food stores and stockists in the country.

Come and support your local butchery, bakery or favourite market stallholder at The Old Biscuit Mill (373 – 375 Albert Road, Woodstock) from 5pm. Entrance is free of charge and everyone is welcome – the more the merrier!

For more information or to book a stand, contact us here.