TheTaste.ie is delighted to team up with Taste of Dublin for TheTaste.ie Producer’s Row once again this year, shining a spotlight on fantastic Irish produce and the passionate people behind it all.
Toca Superfruits
Have you always had a great love of food?
Absolutely! Our passion for food has been steadfast since childhood, evolving into a profound appreciation for culinary diversity, especially with açaí now in the mix.
Can you tell me about your own background in the food industry?
My journey in the food industry began with owning a restaurant, where I honed my skills and developed a keen understanding of culinary trends. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, we pivoted to survival mode and set up a Brazilian-themed coffee shop in Temple Bar. To our delight, our introduction of açaí to the menu created quite a stir, gaining immense popularity among customers. Recognizing the potential, we decided to import directly from Brazil and venture into wholesaling the product across Ireland, marking the inception of our superfruit venture.
What inspired you to set up your business? Did you notice a gap in the market?
As we introduced açaí to our Brazilian-themed coffee shop in Temple Bar, the overwhelming response from customers highlighted a significant gap in the market for premium superfruit offerings. Witnessing the enthusiastic reception, coupled with our background in the food industry, we recognized a unique opportunity to fill this void and bring the exotic flavors of Brazil to the Irish market. Thus, fueled by passion and guided by entrepreneurial spirit, we embarked on the journey of establishing our superfruit business.
How did you set up the business and how has it been growing over time?
The inception of our business was characterized by meticulous planning and determined execution. Since then, we’ve experienced exponential growth, surpassing initial expectations.
Where do you source the ingredients used to make your product(s)?
We take sourcing seriously, venturing all the way to Brazil to ensure we bring the finest açaí berries to our customers. We’ve meticulously tested suppliers from various communities, prioritizing quality and sustainability in our procurement processes.
Can you tell me about some of the benefits associated with your product(s)?
Our products boast a plethora of health benefits, courtesy of their rich antioxidant content and nutritional value. They offer a refreshing and revitalizing experience for consumers.
How important has social media been for you in spreading the word?
Social media has been instrumental in amplifying our brand’s presence and reach. It serves as a dynamic platform for engaging with our audience and sharing the essence of our açaí offerings.
What makes your product unique?
Our product stands out not only for its exceptional taste but also for its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. Packaged in a recyclable box, our açaí offering embodies our dedication to environmental responsibility. Moreover, it caters to diverse dietary preferences, being both gluten-free and vegan-friendly, ensuring that everyone can indulge in its deliciousness guilt-free.
Where can people get your product (shops, restaurants?)
Coffee shop and restaurant owners can conveniently find our product at Conatys Catering. For the final consumer seeking a taste of indulgence, our products are available in the finest coffee shops and restaurants across Dublin, Cavan, Navan, and surrounding regions. Additionally, they can savor our offerings firsthand at our very own coffee shop, nestled in the heart of Temple Bar, aptly named Toca Tapioca House.
Can you tell me some of the chefs and restaurants using your produce?
We have the privilege of collaborating with renowned chefs and esteemed coffee shops, who appreciate the premium quality and versatility of our açaí offerings in their culinary creations.
What, do you think, are some of the most interesting dishes that have been created with your product? Do you have any favourites?
Our açaí-infused dishes span a spectrum of creativity and innovation, from vibrant açaí bowls to refreshing açaí smoothies. Each dish is a testament to the endless culinary possibilities our products offer.
Are there any other small Irish food producers you admire?
We hold great admiration for fellow Irish food producers who share our passion for culinary excellence and sustainability, contributing to the rich tapestry of Ireland’s gastronomic landscape.
What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced since going into business?
Challenges have been plentiful, yet each one has served as a valuable learning opportunity, fortifying our resolve and enhancing our capabilities as a business.
What do you feel is your biggest achievement to date with this business?
Our greatest achievement lies in realizing our vision of bringing premium açaí offerings to the market and witnessing the positive reception and impact they’ve had on consumers’ lives.
Could you ever have imagined doing anything else with your life?
The pursuit of our açaí venture has been deeply fulfilling, aligning perfectly with our passion and purpose. It’s difficult to envision a path more rewarding and exhilarating than this culinary journey.
What does the future hold for your business?
The future holds immense promise and opportunity for our business. We’re committed to further expansion, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring that our açaí offerings continue to delight and nourish consumers worldwide.
Anything further to add?
To all the food enthusiasts out there, we invite you to embark on a flavorful journey with us, exploring the boundless possibilities that açaí has to offer.
https://www.tocasuperfruits.com/
Dublin’s legendary culinary festival, Taste of Dublin 2024, in association with international home furnishing retailer, JYSK, returns for 2024 from Thursday 13th to Sunday 16th June in its new location, the historic Merrion Square. It is expected that more than 34,000 visitors will attend the iconic food and cultural four-day event.
TheTaste.ie, Ireland’s largest food, drink and travel website and community, committed to championing Irish artisan producers, giving a platform to up and coming producers and the best Irish brands is delighted to team up with Taste of Dublin for TheTaste.ie Producer’s Row once again this year, shining a spotlight on fantastic Irish produce and the passionate people behind it all.
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