Did you know blackcurrants are considered to be one of the superfoods we all need to be healthy? Why is this so? Blackcurrants have concentrated amounts of Vitamin C and antioxidants, which are reported in modern times to be majorly helpful in cleansing blood of free radicals, linked to some fatal illnesses like heart disease and cancer. But for centuries,  Vitamin C has been known to be necessary for healthy skin.  As far back as the late 1700’s, sailors on long trips who were deprived of fresh fruit and vegetables, were given vitamin C from  citrus fruit to prevent  or cure scurvy – a nasty skin disease which stems from lack of this vitamin,  and in extreme cases, killed many long distance sea voyagers.  Thank goodness we have moved on from those days! But it shows that this vitamin is highly efficient in keeping skin, gums and soft tissues healthy. Blackcurrants provide it in the tastiest way!

Good Food Ireland is happy to have on board Ireland’s only dedicated blackcurrant farm, Mr Jeffares Blackcurrants,  right here at Ballykelly, Co. Wexford. Blackcurrants have been grown here by the Jeffares family since 1955. Des Jeffares is now at the helm, producing fresh berries in season, and quick frozen whole berries all year round. Brand new to the blackcurrant portfolio is Mr Jeffares Blackcurrant Cordial, an intense cordial made from 100%  Ballykelly homegrown fresh fruit,  cold pressed  – not from concentrate like other cordials. No added sugar means this intense cordial has the fresh natural taste of blackcurrants. It’s got a million and one uses. From making long drinks with sparkling water, lemonades or apple juices, to smoothies, shakes, slushies, cocktails, salad dressings and sauces. Just a few ideas for starters!

To celebrate the launch of this fantastic new product,  we are giving one lucky person the chance to win a case of six 500ml bottles of Mr Jeffares Blackcurrant Cordial.

Find the details of how to enter on this link.

Happy Friday and good luck!!