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All around the country, Irish people are still doing what they do best – sharing our delicious produce and homegrown food
Supermarkets may seem a bit scary right now, but when you need to make healthy, nourishing food for the family, they can seem like the only option. But in reality, local growers and producers of fresh fruit and vegetables are available right around the country to deliver food to your door —and in a time where we should all be supporting local, why not give them a go?
Many local suppliers have been swamped with new customers since the beginning of the pandemic, which is wonderful to see — but it also means that you may experience a few delays with your order. But don’t fret — when the food you get is this fresh and from right on your doorstep, it’s worth the wait.
The Green Earth Organics farm is located just outside of Galway city, but they deliver all over the country. The business is committed to sustainability and zero-waste produce, as evidenced by their plastic-free fruit and veg boxes. A large vegetable box, which includes veg like fennel, leeks, onions, carrots and both sweet and Irish potatoes, will set you back €24.75. Minimum orders for delivery are €50, and what you order today will be delivered to you in a slot next week. The business is experiencing a high level of orders right now, but for the freshness of the produce, and to support local workers, it’s definitely worth it.
Ardkeen is an independent food store based in Waterford City, that delivers the finest food from local producers worldwide. Delivery times are taking longer at the moment due to a higher number of orders, but Ardkeen quality is well worth it. As well as Irish family favourites and artisan preserves, snacks and alcohol, Ardkeen also delivers essential fruit and veg boxes, which will set you back about €25 – €35. A great feature of the site is the blurb alongside each item that lets you know a bit more about its producer.
I Love Organic is based in Maynooth, Co. Kildare and delivers nationwide, with orders placed Monday-Sunday to be delivered the following week. They have plenty of options for fruit and veg boxes, including raw and baby options for every household. They also stock great vegan snack and meal options, and gluten-free products too.
Carraignamuc is a family-run business based out of Knockananna in the Wicklow hills. They grow their own organic veg and also stock produce from other great local growers. Their organic veg boxes range from €20 to €40, with contents varying by the season. They supply each area of the country on a different day of the week (with a different deadline for ordering) which you can find the details of on their Facebook page.
Based in Ballinasloe in Co. Galway, Beech Lawn delivers fresh fruit and veg boxes in the Galway, Clare and Athlone area, with nationwide delivery available for an extra fee. You can place an order either online or over the phone from Monday to Wednesday each week for delivery or collection from their store, based on where you live. The reviews for their fresh produce are fantastic, and with it all being local, you can’t go wrong.
Read more: Want to grow your own food at home over the next few weeks? Here’s how to get started
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