Big News: Anthony Named 2025 Producers’ Champion

.We’re thrilled to share that Anthony O’Toole - chef, writer, Slow Food advocate, food culture and travel specialist, and founder of Fat Tomato - has been named a 2025 Producers’ Champion by Blas na hÉireann, the Irish Food Awards.

Voted by producers themselves, this award recognises those who work tirelessly to support and uplift Ireland’s food community. Anthony’s recognition is a reflection of a career dedicated to just that: championing Irish food at every level.

A lifelong advocate for seed sovereignty, sustainability, and cultural resilience, Anthony is behind some of Ireland’s most forward-thinking food initiatives. From launching Fat Tomato, his organic edible garden and horticulture project in Wexford, to co-founding Taste Wexford and #thisisirishfood, his work bridges the gap between chefs and producers - celebrating heritage ingredients and regional identity through collaboration, education, and shared values.

Whether mentoring artisan makers, advising food organisations, or cooking with wild and traditional ingredients, Anthony has become a vital connector in Ireland’s food landscape - and an inspiring voice for a better, more biodiverse future.

To be recognised alongside Caroline Hennessy and Santina Kennedy is a tremendous honour - and a testament to the deep, community-driven impact of this work.

Read the full announcement on the Blas na hÉireann website.

We’re so proud to see Anthony’s work celebrated in this way. Here’s to more connection, collaboration, and celebration in the world of Irish food and drink.

Fallon Moore (Blas na hÉireann), Anthony O’Toole, Santina Kennedy, and Caroline Hennessy are the Blas na hÉireann Producers’ Champions 2025, with Artie Clifford (Blas na hÉireann)

Photo credit: Joleen Cronin