Seafood Scotland (SFS) took a stand as part of its work on the Scottish Government’s ‘Eat More Fish’ initiative and attracted huge crowds throughout the three-day event. According to the organisers, almost 20,000 people attended the show, many of whom visited the SFS stand.
A programme of activities including chef demonstrations by Kevin MacGillivray and sampling sessions of freshly cooked Scottish haddock, scallops, crab, langoustine and mackerel, ensured a steady supply of willing tasters.
Tutored tastings of products under development by Scottish companies, including crab meat and Cullen skink, proved highly successful in generating positive consumer feedback.
Ian Gatt, SFF President and skipper, spent a day talking to crowds about sustainability issues and also took a turn or two at the stove cooking up his favourite langoustine dishes!
Practical demonstrations of live langoustine cooking and peeling created considerable interest from people keen to try this shellfish, but unsure about handling and eating it. These sessions boasted many satisfied customers.
Glasgow fishmonger Richard Home was on hand throughout the show to discuss issues of local purchasing, filleting, how to pick fresh fish, and the benefits of developing a good relationship with a local fishmonger.
Fresh Scottish seafood was provided for demonstrations by celebrity chefs the Hairy Bikers and Gordon Ramsay, who all extolled its quality and encouraged the audience to rush out and buy.
“The show was highly successful and enabled us to interact with many consumers, both lovers of seafood and those new to the experience,” said SFS Marketing Executive Sarah Holmyard.
SFS will continue its programme of consumer-focused activities with a stand at the Foodies Christmas event in the Assembly Rooms, Edinburgh from 5th – 6th December 2009.
