Following on the success of last year’s event, the decision was made to make it an even bigger offering this year.

On June 28, Cork City Hall will be transformed into a free public market featuring the very best artisan food producers from both counties.

This event offers the public a showcase of artisan produce from all over Cork and Kerry, with tastings as well as cookery demonstrations with celebrity chef Kevin Dundon.

“The Cork and Kerry region is renowned nationally and internationally for its high-quality food produce, and with the concentration of artisan producers in this area, the Food Forum is an ideal way to showcase the variety of excellent food produced here to consumers, retailers and distributors, as well as key industry stakeholders,” said Joe Burke, Local Enterprise Office South Cork.

“All are welcome to attend the Cork and Kerry Food Forum, and entry is free of charge. We want people to come along and experience the wonderful food culture here, and we guarantee to give visitors food for thought in more ways than one. We are also happy that the Irish Examiner and 96FM have come on board with us this year.”

The aim of the event is to promote Cork and Kerry food and artisan producers, through a partnership including the Local Enterprise Offices of Cork and Kerry, Cork City Council, Cork County Council, SuperValu and Bord Bia.

Tara McCarthy, Bord Bia’s director of food and beverage, said : “The importance of local remains a pillar for the Irish consumer and Bord Bia is delighted to support the Cork Kerry Forum to showcase to both consumers and trade buyers the variety, passion and skills of local suppliers of the region.”

Supervalu ambassador Kevin Dundon will give demonstrations of his culinary skills and provide creative inspiration, while Patricia Flaherty from A Touch of Magic will give demonstrations for children.

“We are committed to sourcing local produce for our stores across the country, and the Cork and Kerry Food Forum provides an ideal platform for our buyers and retailers to meet with independent producers from the region,” said Kenneth O’Connor, local project manager of SuperValu.

“SuperValu is a major retail supporter of the Irish food industry and we are delighted to be a part of the 2015 Cork and Kerry Food Forum,” he added.

For more information on what to expect log onto www.foodforum.ie  or follow onwww.Facebook/corkkerryfoodforum.