This Italian cheese is SA’s dairy product of the year

A handmade burrata from Puglia Cheese in Somerset West was named the country’s dairy product of the year this week.

The burrata, made from 100% South African milk, stood out among a record number of 1,227 entries from 81 producers in this year’s SA Dairy Championship – the largest and oldest dairy competition in Africa.

A panel of 130 judges assessed the entries over three days. A total of 122 products were named South African Champions in their classes, while 36 products were awarded the prestigious Qualité mark – the only official recognition for excellence in the South African dairy industry.

According to lead judge Graham Sutherland, the winning product demonstrates technical skill and authenticity.

“After my recent work experience in Italy, it is particularly satisfying to see a product like Puglia’s burrata recognized at this level. It is a true celebration of Italian cheesemaking tradition – a fresh pasta filata cheese with a delicate outer layer and a rich, creamy interior that offers balance and opulence. It embodies the essence of the good life.”

Burrata is described as a fresh mozzarella-type cheese filled with cream and chocolate chipwith a soft exterior and a rich, creamy core, and is typically served at room temperature.

Davide and Ursula Ostuni, founders of Puglia Cheese, say the award is a proud moment for the team.

“This recognition reflects years of dedication to quality and a deep respect for traditional cheese-making techniques, adapted to local conditions.

“Puglia Cheese was founded in 2010 after moving from Italy, with the aim of producing authentic, high-quality Italian cheese locally. We were pioneers in the production of burrata in South Africa and are proud to deliver a product that can compete with the best,” say Davide and Ursula.

According to Breyton Milford, general manager of Agri-Expo, the results reflect innovation as well as resilience in the dairy industry.

“The record number of entries and the consistently high quality of products indicate a competitive and progressive industry, where established manufacturers and smaller players continue to raise the standard.”

Milford congratulated top performers in this year’s Qualité awards, including Lactalis South Africa (eight awards), Clover (three), Fairfield Dairy (three), Fair Cape Dairies (two), Ladismith Cheese Company (two), Lancewood (two) and Polar Ice Cream Company (two).

A wide range of other producers were also recognized for outstanding quality, including Dalewood Fromage, which received an honorable mention for third place overall for its Full Cream Jersey Milk, while second place overall was awarded to Lactalis South Africa for its Woolworths Mature Gouda – 10 months.

Agri-Expo also honored 32-year-old Courtenay van der Merwe, new product development manager at Fair Cape Dairies, with the third annual Hollard Game Changer Award.

This award, which includes a cash prize of R50 000 and is sponsored by Hollard, recognizes young professionals who are already making a measurable contribution to the dairy industry.

Milford emphasizes that such a project is only possible thanks to strong cooperation in the industry.

Natasha de Lange, managing director of IMCD South Africa, says their involvement reflects a long-term commitment to the industry.

“Supporting dairy excellence with purpose is more than just a slogan for us; it’s how we work every day. We are proud to stand with the industry as a platinum partner of the 2026 SA Dairy Championship and celebrate the people and products that take the sector forward.”