Glanbia Ireland Cheddar sweeps the boards at the International Cheese and Dairy awards

Glanbia Ireland Cheddar proved to be a top hit with the judges at the recently held International Cheese and Dairy Awards, scooping six Gold, four Silver and four Bronze medals. Employees at the Ballyragget and Wexford Cheese plants have cheesy grins for a reason – they were awarded the medals along with three prestigious trophies at the international awards held in Staffordshire UK.

The accolades were received across all categories – mild, medium, mature, extra mature and vintage. The Glanbia Ireland plant in Ballyragget won the prestigious Kerrygold Cup, which is awarded annually for the best Irish Cheddar. The winning block was selected from the Kilmeaden Fillet Range. The Wexford plant was awarded the DSM Trophy for the best Vintage cheddar, along with the ICDA award for the best overseas creamery block.

Gerry Warren, Glanbia Ireland Cheese Grader said: “We are delighted to have achieved such a strong performance at this year’s international awards. We were up against stiff competition from both Irish and UK cheddar producers.

“Great credit is due to the talented staff in both plants. They take great pride in their work and their attention to detail ensures that we deliver top quality cheddar to our much-valued customers.

“The judges found that the texture and flavour of our cheddar really stood out and this is down to the quality of the milk which we receive from our dedicated dairy farmers.

“Management and staff in both plants should also be applauded, together with everyone in the supply chain who continue to produce and deliver top quality products in these difficult and challenging times.”