A handcrafted burrata from Puglia Cheese in Somerset West has taken top honours as the 2026 South African Dairy Product of the Year at the SA Dairy Championships, held on Thursday, 23 April at Nederburg in Paarl.
Made from 100% South African milk, the award-winning burrata stood out among a record 1 227 entries from 81 producers in this year’s competition, the largest and longest-running dairy competition in Africa. Known for its delicate outer layer and rich, creamy centre, the product reflects a growing appetite for premium, artisanal cheese.
Judges praise craftsmanship and authenticity
A panel of 130 judges assessed entries over three days. In total, 122 products were named SA Champions as class winners, while 36 received the prestigious Qualité mark – the only official mark of excellence in the South African dairy industry.
Chief judge Graham Sutherland says the winning product reflects both technical skill and authenticity. “Having recently spent time working in Italy, it is especially rewarding to see a product like Puglia’s burrata recognised at this level. It is a true celebration of Italian cheesemaking tradition – a fresh pasta filata cheese with a delicate outer shell and rich, creamy interior that delivers both balance and indulgence. It captures the essence of la bella vita.”
What makes burrata special
Burrata is a fresh mozzarella-style cheese filled with cream and stracciatella, typically served at room temperature and prized for its soft texture and indulgent flavour.
A proud milestone for Puglia Cheese
Puglia Cheese founders Davide and Ursula Ostini describe the award as a proud milestone. “This recognition reflects years of dedication to quality and a deep respect for traditional cheesemaking techniques, adapted for local conditions. Founded in 2010 after relocating from Italy, Puglia Cheese pioneered the production of burrata in South Africa, driven by a desire to bring authentic, high-quality Italian cheese to the local market. We are proud to produce a product that stands alongside the best.”
Industry shows strength and innovation
According to Breyton Milford, General Manager of Agri-Expo, the results highlight both innovation and resilience in the dairy sector. “The record number of entries and consistently high standard of products point to a competitive and forward-moving industry, with both established producers and smaller players continuing to raise the bar.”
Top performers in this year’s Qualité Awards included 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). Dalewood Fromage received an honourable mention for third place overall for its Full Cream Jersey Milk, while second place overall went to Lactalis South Africa for its Woolworths Mature Gouda – 10 months.
Young talent recognised
Agri-Expo also honoured 32-year-old Courtenay van der Merwe, New Product Development Manager at Fair Cape Dairies, with the third annual Hollard Game Changer Award. The award recognises young professionals making a measurable impact in the dairy industry.
The win not only highlights the rise of artisanal cheese in South Africa, but also underscores the ability of local producers to match – and even surpass – international standards.
