Clare McCarthy - Irish Times, 2nd October, 2004

Fancy feeling smug while munching on some delicious “Baileys” or “RazzCherry” shortbread cookies? These and a special “passion log” (with pineapple and walnuts) have won silver medals at the UK's Great Taste awards. But they are made in Ireland, using free-range eggs and unadulterated flour. Tara's Handmade Quality Foods doesn't believe in preservatives, colourings or additives. Its facility uses renewable energy, and delivery to all outlets is made in recyclable boxes.

The company was formed just two years ago by Tara and Michael Breen. Tara, who is from an Indian family, is especially proud of a Bronze medal she also picked up for her Irish-Indian snack food. Namkin (below), which lately featured in Food and Wine's Hot 100. It's a sweet and spicy snack containing the humble Irish spud, but no flour, and is available from health food shops. Look out for Tara's cakes and bikkies in Clery's, Roches Stores, Butlers, Kylemores countrywide, and other deli's and cafes, including the Joy of Coffee and Bagel Haven. If you'd like something wholesome made for a special occasion, you can contact Tara's Handmade Quality Foods in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford on 058-44778