Maine attractions

Maine-made food producers fared well at the 23rd annual New England Products Trade Show. In the Specialty Food category, Fort Fairfield-based Robin’s Chocolate Sauce received first place for Tropical Dark Chocolate Sauce, while Naturally ME of Richmond was awarded second place for Vegan, Gluten-Free Apple Muffins. The three-day event, which features New England manufacturers, took place in late March at the Portland Sports Complex. For more information, visit www.nepts.com. For a full list of retailers specializing in Maine-made items, visit www.mainemade.com.

Berry good news

Bad news first: A recent study published in the April issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine states that Americans aren’t eating enough fruits and vegetables. Here’s the good news, but it might just give you the blues (blueberries, that is): A healthy diet rich in colorful fruit and vegetables may help with weight management and may reduce the risk of cancer, diabetes, and other chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease. In Maine, that means a hefty dose of wild blueberries, which are now available in supermarket freezer cases nationwide. Individually quick-frozen, wild blueberries are frozen at the peak of freshness and are just as nutritious as fresh. So go make some muffins. Better yet, make a smoothie. And a salad – instead of fries – wouldn’t hurt, either.

Lobster’s name up in lights

In Maine, lobster is a star performer – winning critical praise for its roles in, well, rolls, seaside lobster bakes and elegant Newburgs. But now lobster is shining on an international stage – the Prix d’Elite, known as the “Academy Awards of the seafood industry.” Three Maine lobster products are among only four U.S. finalists at the European Seafood Exposition in Brussels, Belgium. Shucked Fresh Maine Lobster Meat from Shucks Maine Lobster of Richmond (pictured in an AP photo by Joel Page); and Blanched, Split Maine Lobster and Maine Lobster Cocktail Claws, both from Claw Island Foods in South Portland, are in the running for the top prize. The winner will be announced in late April.

Tidbits is hungry for news about local food products and events. Send your Tidbits by mail to: Bangor Daily News, attn: Kristen Andresen, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor ME 04402-1329; by fax to 941-9476; or by e-mail to kandresen@bangordailynews.net.