A NEWHAVEN-BASED importer of fine Sardinian food is celebrating its seven years trading in the UK by opening a new delicatessen.

L’Isola Buona Sardianian Specialities began from a family business in Sardinia.

“It was our beloved late father, very much of a visionary, who saw the demand for our fine produce in the British market,” says Lucia Cuccureddu who runs the business operation from where the deli is based in the Bridge Industrial Estate, near Screwfix, in New Road, Newhaven.

“We’re so proud to be thriving today, it was always our father’s dream that his children would eventually get together and carry forward the family business and tradition. Having just opened our Italian organic deli and new online shop – we feel his blessings.

“Our strong working ethic, encouraged by our parents, meant that we recognized each of our individual abilities and how to apply them to both our company and for the benefit of our clients and customers.”

Lucia is joined by her brothers - professional chef Antonello, who creates what he describes as tastebud tantalising menus from the various imported ingredients, and Sardinia-based Salvatore who works closely with the business’s handpicked farmers.

The products on offer range from pasta and bread to cooking sauces, preserves and a range of more than 20 wines from Sardinian vineyards.

There is also a range of cured meats, authentic fish products from smoked tuna to Sardinian caviar Bottarga gratugiata, and sheep and goats cheese products.

“We only source from farmers sharing our beliefs, giving animals the best quality of life and treating our precious land respectfully,” says Lucia.

“We have been following the true artisan food and drink culture all of our lives.

“And it’s wonderful to see the British market grow increasingly more conscious about natural eating too.”

L’Isola Buona trades directly with top UK chefs and establishments.

“We have a no names policy about our customers,” says marketing manager Emma Andrews.

"But we are looking after some of the finest eating establishments in Sussex and Mayfair.

“Sardinia has the world's highest concentration of centenarians because of good healthy diet and lifestyle. Our mission is to expose and introduce ancient tradition into the modern world, in other words help people discover the history behind every single flavour. Our recipes are handed down through the generations.”

For more information about the range of fine foods from L’Isola Buona visit the website at www.lisolabuona.co.uk, call 01273 512260 or follow their Twitter feed on @lisolabuona