The THA Division of Food Security hosted its 4th Annual Lamb Fest at the Shaw Park Food Hub on Sunday as part of the schedule of activities commemorating World Food Day.
The event aimed to increase awareness of lamb as a viable and sustainable meat option.
From braised lamb, curried lamb and lamb in doubles to lamb in pholourie and much more, caterers were encouraged to get creative with the meat.
President of the Tobago Integrated Livestock Association, Kevlon Dillon, says sheep rearing, long regarded as a household activity, holds significant potential to become a premium meat industry in Tobago.
“Trinidad has the market; hence, you would see all these butcher vehicles in Tobago procuring animals. So the Tobago farmer now has to capitalise and move away from just tying out an animal on the side of the road and selling them, we need to add value.”
Mr Dillon explained that value is added by producing special cuts of lamb, instead of simply sending the animals to butchers.
“Even while at the Lamb Fest, tourists approach me; they said they saw me on YouTube, and they are looking for fresh local cuts to buy. Now this year for the Lamb Fest we would have increased from 5600 pounds to 7800 pounds, and I am proud to say that the caterers purchased everything.”
Potential farmers had the opportunity to win a sheep to begin their livestock journey. There were also live cooking competitions, where chefs got creative under pressure.
Patron Alisa Bailey said, “I find it is a really innovative idea, and I am really amazed by all of the vendors that are out and the variety of products that are available. Right now I am having some kind of Guinness braised lamb, and it is delicious.”
Another patron, Jo-Ann Douglas, told TTT News, “We have been here since the inception, and today is the best food I have ever had and I am advertising for dem girls, tasty, delicious and worth it.”
After sampling some of the more unique offerings, including lamb doubles, THA Secretary of Food Security Wane Clarke was impressed.
“Very creative, and it is exactly what we want to encourage. People being creative so you could get more from the actual product.”
While addressing the opening of the Lamb Fest, Secretary Clarke noted that it is important for the Division to support farmers by providing access to the necessary technical support and infrastructure.
“Your work is valued, and there is a commitment to the creation of conditions in which agriculture can be sustainable.”
Mr Clarke challenged farmers to elevate their approach to meet consumer demands.