Spring Sheep Milk Co has won the 2017 New Zealand Food Awards, organised by Massey University.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the awards which celebrate creative innovations from New Zealand’s artisanal and large-scale food and beverage manufacturers, with 22 products from 22 different companies taking out the top spots.
Spring Sheep Milk Co took out the highest honour of the Massey University Supreme Award with its Vanilla Flavoured Probiotic Sheep Milk Powder, which also won them the NZTE Export Innovation Award.
Nick Hammond, COO of Spring Sheep Milk Co said that the company was trying to break new ground in product innovation and entering new markets, “so I feel that this award is a real recognition of our whole team, and their passion for their work”.
Other companies recognised for their outstanding innovation and products, include Poppy and Olive in the BITE Gourmet Award category with its Chocolate Hazelnut Butter, Gathered Game taking out the Artisan Award for its Premium Wild Venison Salami and Deer Sticks, and Proper Crisps in the Dry Award category with its Kumara Chipotle and Garlic.
The revamped Food Safety Culture and Primary Sector Products Awards, sponsored by the Ministry for Primary Industries, was won by The Pure Food Co. and T&G Global Ltd. respectively. The James & Wells Business Innovation Award was presented to Original Foods Baking Co.
Massey University Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas, said that the interest in the New Zealand Food Awards was exceptional, and the level of innovation from New Zealanders is something to be proud of.
“As a small country, the level of innovation that we provide in terms of the food and beverage sector is incredible. We are committed to encouraging local business to continue to grow, experiment and create fantastic products, while recognising them for their efforts.”
In the Alcoholic Beverage category, the finalists included 12 entries from six different companies, and it was won Epic Brewing Company’s Epic Hop Zombie IPA beer .
Winning products are eligible to use the New Zealand Food Awards Quality Mark highlighting the superiority of the products to both consumers and industry, and helping to boost sales and distribution domestically and internationally.
For more information, see http://www.foodawards.co.nz/.
