IFEX Philippines, the country’s biggest international trade show for food and ingredients organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), celebrated Philippine food excellence at the Katha Awards for Food at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, Pasay City last May 26, 2023.

Katha Awards is a DTI-CITEM initiative that aims to strengthen the reputation of the Philippines as a go-to destination for globally competitive, innovative, and creative Asian food products by recognizing brands or companies. The winning food products exhibit new flavor profiles, innovative ideas, unique food fusions, and creative packaging methods as voted by the board of judges. This year’s awards edition was held in partnership with Mintel, a leading global market intelligence firm.

CITEM Executive Director Dr. Edward Fereira highlighted during the opening night the impact of homegrown brands and companies in positioning the Philippines as a go-to destination for globally competitive Asian and Filipino food and ingredients. “Thank you to all our Philippine food brands and companies for being instruments in uplifting our economy and being ambassadors of our rich Filipino food culture as you continue to produce products and ingredients that add zest and flavor to cuisines in kitchens and tables from all over the world,” Dr. Fereira said.

Meanwhile, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Trade Promotions Group Assistant Secretary Glenn Peñaranda emphasized the importance of giving recognition to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) such as the Katha Awards and how it directly affects our economy. “MSMEs, as you know, are one of the pillars of the economy and they should be honored and recognized for ensuring the country is fed with top-quality products that meet global standards along with new flavor profiles, fusions, and creative packaging,” Asec. Peñaranda stated.

PHILEXPORT President Dr. Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis Jr. expressed high hopes for the Philippine agriculture industry. “For the agri-fish sector, they include meat and edible meat offal presenting the biggest opportunity for Filipino exporters as the sector represents a huge 49% sale of export potential,” Dr. Ortiz-Luis delivered in his recorded keynote speech.

The winning entries of the Katha Awards for Food are on display at the Main Hall of IFEX Philippines until May 28.

SOURCE FROM: https://www.ifexconnect.com/story/2023-katha-awards-for-food-winners-announced