Irish food manufacturing has quietly become a lot more productive over the last five years. Then energy prices went back up. Two trends, moving in opposite directions, and only one of them is within your control.

Irish food manufacturers can access a range of grants and supports to reduce energy costs, upgrade equipment and invest in lower-carbon technologies. This guide outlines the main SEAI, LEO and Enterprise Ireland funding options available.

Food Drink Ireland has submitted its Budget 2027 recommendations to Government and energy costs feature prominently. With 57% of food and drink manufacturers identifying energy as a major challenge, the submission makes a clear case for targeted intervention. Here is what is being asked for and what it means for the sector.

New EU rules on Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat foods came into force on 1 July 2026. The FSAI has issued guidance to help food businesses comply. For Irish food manufacturers, this is not just a food safety issue. It has direct implications for how facilities are managed, including temperature control and energy use.

The Ibec CEO Survey 2026 paints a clear picture of the pressure Irish business leaders are under. For manufacturers in particular, the numbers make for difficult reading. Here is what the data shows and what it means for energy costs on the factory floor.