I am both proud and delighted to once again support the Jersey Hospitality Association’s Delicious Dine-Out Festival, an incredibly ambitious and meaningful programme that celebrates and supports our vibrant food industry.

Jersey has long been a leader in the production of dairy, fresh seafood and vegetables, the quality of which is renowned around the world. As Islanders, we are lucky to have access to nutritious fresh ingredients throughout the year, providing enormous choice for all islanders– be that at home or in the many fantastic Jersey restaurants, cafes, and other eateries.

Delicious Jersey gives us the opportunity to celebrate, educate and collaborate, and to praise and promote products that have been caught, grown or produced locally, and this holistic approach ties together economic sectors: agriculture, fisheries, hospitality and retail, and it comes with an additional focus on educating the public about the need to avoid food waste and reduce food mileage. The enormous benefit of this will be a more circular economy that is regenerative for our Island and the planet. This is an exciting time for the future of our local industries and the perfect time to show our support for the fundamental and exemplary work they do.

Delicious Jersey is helping to deliver on many of the themes in the Government of Jersey’s Common Strategic Policy, including helping us create a sustainable approach, and a vibrant economy with a skilled workforce for the future, by enhancing our international profile and promoting our Island identity. It is also working across sectors to join up local communities in: agriculture, fisheries, producers, education, tourism and public health.

There is no doubt in my mind that Delicious Jersey and all its offerings throughout the year, are an attractive proposition for our visitors, many of whom travel to Jersey in the expectation that they will enjoy great, local food. Local gourmands and gastro-tourists alike will have their taste buds excited by the array of freshness that Jersey can provide. It’s wonderful to see that the Delicious Dine-Out Festival offering is extensive and inclusive, spanning the entire spectrum of our celebrated eateries, from bistro to beach café.

Getting behind this initiative will have long-term benefits for our Island: reducing carbon emissions associated with imports, community engagement and preservation of our culinary heritage, reducing food waste and enhancing the island’s soil health through sustainable farming practices, as well as helping us all learn more about healthy eating.

I cannot wait to experience this year’s Delicious Jersey Dine-Out Festival and urge you to support our local providers and feast alongside your friends, family and fellow islanders.

Deputy Kirsten Morel – Minister for Sustainable Economic Development

A message from Deputy Kirsten Morel