Boyne Valley Food Stories: Siobháin McShane-Loy of Tastees
At Boyne Valley Flavours, we love celebrating our incredible members and this week, we’re chatting with Siobháin McShane-Loy, owner of Tastees, an artisan food business based in Clogherhead, Co. Louth.
Tell us a bit about your business Siobháin.
Tastees is an artisan producer of marmalade, preserves, chutney, sauces, dressings, herb mixes, and cookie mixes. We use Irish-grown produce whenever possible and never include artificial colours or preservatives.
How did it all begin?
It all started with me making jams for friends and family using local fruit. They were so well received that I began producing them to sell at markets. Thanks to customer feedback and new ideas, our range has grown to around 22 products—and we’re still expanding.
What makes your products unique?
We focus on keeping things natural, reducing sugar content so that the real flavours of the ingredients shine through. Over the years, we’ve won several awards and hope our products continue to be recognised for their quality.
What’s your signature product?
Our most popular products include:
- Spiced Mango Chutney – Winner of a 2024 Great Taste Award
- Honey Hot Wing Sauce – A customer favourite, which we’re hoping will bring home awards in 2025
What’s been the most rewarding part of your journey so far?
Repeat customers. Seeing people return for more and recommending us to others is incredibly rewarding. We’re also proud to now supply over 37 shops across Ireland, from On the Pig’s Back in the English Market (Cork) to the Meat Merchant in Moira.
What role does being part of Boyne Valley Flavours play in your business?
Being a member of Boyne Valley Flavours has given me access to fantastic local ingredients, expert knowledge, and a supportive community. Meeting other producers in the group has helped me understand my products and customers better—and has boosted my confidence as a business owner.
What’s your favourite Boyne Valley product or experience (besides your own)?
The Samhain Festival 2024 was an amazing experience. It allowed me to connect with other producers in the Boyne Valley that I hadn't met before. I also love using Meade Farm Potato Starch—a key ingredients in our Honey Hot Wing Sauce, which has been a hit with everyone who tries it.
What’s next for Tastees?
January and February are all about production, but from March onwards, we’ll be back at markets and reaching out to new stockists. We’re also updating our website to increase traffic and spread the word about our products.
How can people buy your products?
You can purchase Tastees products online or check out our list of stockists at: https://tastees.sumupstore.com/
How can people connect with you?
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tastees_homemade
Email: tastees.info@gmail.com
Website: https://tastees.sumupstore.com/
Thank you to Siobháin for chatting with us and the best of luck to Tastees for 2025!
