The awards (an official project of World Design Capital 2014), acknowledge and celebrate outstanding, independent South African producers, food markets and outlets for their innovation, passion, integrity and care for the environment.
Winners are those who deliver a consistently high-quality product that is South African grown or crafted using primary produce from South Africa. Due care and consideration for both the environment and workforce are essential criteria.
Shortlisted nominees that meet these criteria will be invited to submit their produce for judging by a panel. Nominations for the best local food blog, however, will only be open until 22 February, after which the public will be given an opportunity to vote for their favourite.
Winners will be announced on 12 April, 2014, at the Stellenbosch Slow Market at Oude Libertas Estate in Stellenbosch.
Eat Out's editor-in-chief, Anelde Greeff, said: "Every year we find ourselves amazed at the talent that South Africa's small producers have to offer and we also recognise the critical role that outlets and markets play. This year Zonnebloem wines have come on board with their signature focus on craftsmanship and excellence."
As a project in the official programme of World Design Capital Cape Town 2014 (#WDC629), these awards demonstrate significant scale and impact to both nominees and winners.
Dè-Mari Kellerman, global marketing manager of Zonnebloem wines, said: "Zonnebloem's investment in craftsmanship ensures that every bottle is presented in a way that speaks to the care that went into its creation. We therefore believe that awards such as these are absolutely vital to both acknowledge and support the vibrant and skilled industry that exists in South Africa."
Aileen Lamb, GM of Eat Out, concluded: "These awards are really about finding the best local talent - no matter how small their reach is - so we encourage food lovers and producers to nominate their favourite South African small producers or themselves before 12 March."
For further information, go to www.eatout.co.za/article/2014-eat-zonnebloem-produce-awards-nominations or email az.oc.tuotae@ofni.
