Mull and Iona step up to plate to promote local seafood

A community initiative in the north of Mull has been encouraging people to buy and use more local seafood through promotional activities and events.

Seafood Mull & Iona is being led by some volunteer community members from Dervaig Village Hall in collaboration with some local fi shermen. The project has been supported by the Regional Food Fund which is delivered by the Scotland Food & Drink Partnership with funding from Scottish Government.

Mull is home to a number of inshore fi shermen and farmers, who catch lobster,

langoustines, “crab, and scallops along with farmed mussels, oysters and salmon. The impact of coronavirus and the disruption and uncertainty at the end of the Brexit transition period has taken its toll, with signifi cant loss to international markets. The purpose of this project was to stimulate awareness and increase sales of seafood, and other food products, locally thereby contributing to the islands’ economy. The weeklong celebration showcased the excellent quality and variety of Mull seafood and other locally-produced food, providing an opportunity for the promotion of the island produce and real and memorable food tourism experiences.

The week of events included an Oyster Farm

Tour and Tasting at Am Birlinn, near Croig, A Perfect Seafood Picnic at a secret location near Tobermory and The purpose a Seafood Extravaganza of this project dinner at Dervaig Village Hall was to stimulate awareness and showcasing the wonderful seafood landed on Mull. In addition, the social increase sales media coverage had a ‘feed’ of seafood, of seafood recipes from and other food local restaurants, information products. on the health benefi ts of seafood and some fi lm clips with local fi shermen giving an insight into handling seafood. More information can be found on the Seafood Mull & Iona Facebook and Instagram pages.