Writing for The Observer, chairing the BBC Radio 4’s The Kitchen Cabinet, and a regular judge on Masterchef, he will join a panel of judges from across the Scottish food and drink industry to sample entries.
Rayner said: “Scotland has long been a leader in promoting itself through the quality of its food and drink offering, much of which leads the pack. I am thrilled be a judge of the Scotland Food and Drink Excellence Awards, not least for the opportunity it presents to see the very best of what's on offer.”
Now in its 20th year, the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards will take place in Edinburgh on Thursday 23 May.
Entries for the new structure of 20 categories are now open, and those looking to enter have until Friday 1 March 2019 to do so.
The Excellence Awards commends the people, companies and suppliers that contribute to one of the country’s ‘most important and valuable industries’.
James Withers, chief executive at event organiser Scotland Food & Drink, said: “Every year the standard of entries gets better and better. We aim to champion the very best Scottish growers and producers have to offer and look forward to hearing Jay’s thoughts on the entries.
“He’s incredibly well-known and respected in foody circles and Scottish produce has a place at the table in any high-end restaurant. The quality of food and drink produced in this country is second to none and I can’t wait to sample the best of it in the judging room.”
The 2019 Excellence Awards is supported by The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) and headline sponsor, ASDA.
To enter the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards, please visit: http://excellenceawards.foodanddrink.scot