Sheriff’s Biltong shortlisted for Farm to Fork Producer of the Year

Daniel Bevan - Editor

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Welsh snack producer Sheriff’s Biltong has been named a finalist in the Wales Food and Drink Awards 2026, as the fast-growing brand continues to build momentum in the premium meat snack market.

The company, co-founded by former Wales and British & Irish Lions hooker Ken Owens and West Wales food producer Ruth Davies, has been shortlisted in the Farm to Fork Producer of the Year category, sponsored by NFU Mutual.

Products are stocked at a range of high-profile locations including Cardiff Airport and the Snowdon Summit Café, as well as more than 50 Tesco Superstores and Extra stores across Wales.

The business originated from a conversation between Owens and Davies, long-time friends and neighbours.

Davies, who has more than 15 years’ experience in the food industry and trained in traditional curing techniques in Italy, had been seeking to diversify the charcuterie business she runs with her husband Andrew.

Owens, already a customer, became closely involved in developing the product and shaping the brand.

Since launching, Sheriff’s Biltong has secured a national Tesco listing, attended the Gulfood sourcing event in Dubai and gained increasing recognition within the Welsh food and drink sector.

Ruth Davies, co-founder of Sheriff’s Biltong, said: “We started Sheriff’s Biltong because we believed Wales had something truly special to offer, world-class beef and a genuine pride in our food heritage.

“To be recognised by the Wales Food and Drink Awards in the Farm to Fork category means everything to us.”

Ken Owens, co-founder, added: “I’ve always been proud to be Welsh and proud of what Welsh farming stands for.

“Sheriff’s Biltong was built on those values, honest ingredients and nothing unnecessary. Being shortlisted for this award is a huge honour and shows that when you back Welsh produce wholeheartedly, people notice.”

The Farm to Fork category recognises producers that demonstrate a transparent and traceable journey from field to finished product, reflecting the award’s focus on provenance and sustainability.

Winners of the Wales Food and Drink Awards will be announced at a ceremony held at the Swansea Building Society Arena on 16 April 2026.