CHICAGO — V&V Supremo Foods announced March 6, 2026, that several of its cheeses earned top honors at the World Championship Cheese Contest, receiving six total medals, including two “Best of Class” awards. The recognition highlights the company’s Chihuahua and Cotija cheeses, which were evaluated alongside thousands of entries by international dairy experts for flavor, texture, body, and appearance.
The awards come from the globally recognized competition hosted by the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association, one of the dairy industry’s most respected judging events. According to the company, the recognition underscores growing demand for authentic Mexican cheeses in both retail and foodservice channels across the United States.
Award-winning cheeses recognized by judges
The Chicago-based company secured two Best of Class honors, along with additional silver and bronze medals across several categories.
Best of Class
- V&V Supremo® Chihuahua® Brand Cheese
- V&V Supremo® Chihuahua® Brand Cheese Shreds
Silver Medal
- V&V Supremo® Chihuahua® Brand Cheese
- V&V Supremo® Grated Sierra® Brand Cotija Cheese
Bronze Medal
- V&V Supremo® Sierra® Brand Cotija Cheese
- V&V Supremo® Chihuahua® Brand Cheese Shreds
Chihuahua cheese, a semi-soft Mexican variety known for its meltability, is commonly used in dishes such as quesadillas, enchiladas, and baked casseroles. Cotija, often compared to Parmesan due to its crumbly texture and salty flavor, is frequently used as a finishing cheese on tacos, grilled vegetables, and salads.
In announcing the results, company leadership framed the recognition as validation of its long-standing focus on traditional cheesemaking methods.
According to Gilberto Villaseñor, chief visionary officer at V&V Supremo, the awards reflect the company’s commitment to maintaining authentic production standards while scaling nationally.
“Our team takes tremendous pride in producing authentic cheeses that truly honor our Mexican heritage while meeting the highest standards of quality,” Villaseñor said. “Receiving recognition at the World Championship Cheese Contest is a meaningful validation of the dedication and expertise of everyone at V&V Supremo.”
The company, founded in 1964, produces a range of Mexican cheeses, creams, and chorizo products distributed throughout the United States.
Why it matters
Recognition at global competitions can influence brand perception in the dairy industry. These events often shape how brands are viewed by buyers and professionals.
For companies producing culturally specific cheeses, awards from respected contests can validate authenticity. They also highlight craftsmanship. This recognition is particularly important for buyers, distributors, and chefs.
Demand for Mexican cheeses has steadily grown in the United States. Many consumers are exploring regional cuisines. They are also looking for ingredients used in traditional dishes.
Retailers and foodservice operators are expanding their cheese selections. Many now offer more than mainstream options like cheddar and mozzarella. Products such as Cotija, Oaxaca, and Chihuahua are becoming more common.
Industry analysts note that recognition from competitions like the World Championship Cheese Contest can accelerate retail adoption. Awards help signal quality to grocery buyers and restaurant operators.
For brands like V&V Supremo, awards reinforce a broader trend. Heritage-driven food products are gaining traction. Many consumers are seeking authenticity and greater culinary diversity.
Editor’s note: Source86 perspective
For food manufacturers and private-label brands, V&V Supremo’s recognition highlights a broader CPG trend. There is rising demand for authentic regional ingredients and culturally rooted products.
As global cuisines become more mainstream in North American retail and foodservice, traditional cheeses, spices, and specialty ingredients are gaining renewed attention. Both buyers and consumers are driving this shift.
At Source86, we help food brands navigate this growing demand. We support bulk ingredient sourcing, private label production, R&D, and co-manufacturing partnerships.
Whether scaling specialty dairy products or launching culturally inspired foods, our network supports manufacturers at every stage. Our goal is to help brands maintain authenticity while building resilient supply chains. Let’s talk.
FAQs
The World Championship Cheese Contest is a global dairy competition hosted by the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association. It evaluates thousands of cheeses from around the world based on flavor, texture, appearance, and craftsmanship.
V&V Supremo received awards for its Chihuahua Brand Cheese, Chihuahua Cheese Shreds, and Sierra Brand Cotija Cheese, including two Best of Class honors.
Growing consumer interest in authentic global cuisines has increased demand for traditional Mexican ingredients, including cheeses such as Cotija, Oaxaca, and Chihuahua.
External source: V&V Supremo Foods, Inc. Wins Best of Class and Six Medals at the World Championship Cheese Contest
