Northern Ireland has the potential to be the world's leading sustainable food producer, political leaders have been told.

This was the key message delivered by Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association (NIFDA) chairman George Mullan at the organisation’s 26^th annual dinner.

ABP’s managing director for Northern Ireland also confirmed that, with the right support and a stable political environment, the north’s food and drink sectors can play a key role in meeting climate targets, growing the local economy and boosting UK food security.

He said: "One of the biggest challenges we face as an industry is the need to continue to feed a growing world population in the most sustainable way.

According to Mullan, Northern Ireland food and drink has a proven track record when it comes to innovation, quality and commercial success.

“Across the entire sector, firms are already working to make this happen, developing more sustainable products and implementing strategies on farm and the factory floor to lower carbon emissions,” he explained.

The ABP boss told the gathering that the UK government needs to fight for the interests of the UK's food and drink sector at trade negotiations.

“Events of the past year have brought into sharp focus the importance of food security as the ongoing war in Ukraine continues to have an impact on the food system globally," he said.

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris MP, also attended the NIFDA event.

He said: "Northern Ireland's food and drink industry plays a vital role in the Northern Ireland economy.