First Preserve Championships draws overwhelming response

A new era for local preserved products was ushered in on Wednesday 23 July with the judging of the inaugural South African Preserve Championships at Eensgezind outside Durbanville. With 456 entries from 66 producers – more than double the number expected – it is clear that the time is ripe for national recognition of quality preserve products.

“The Preserve Championships was created to honour top-quality products, raise awareness of preservation, create marketing opportunities for entrepreneurs, and celebrate the art of food preservation,” says chief judge Susina Jooste, well-known food expert and training specialist. “It also serves as a platform for knowledge-sharing, sustainability, economic growth, the raising of standards, and the reduction of food waste.”

The panel of 38 judges included renowned chefs, experienced food writers, retail and wholesale specialists, hospitality experts, chef students, representatives from the Cape Women's Agricultural Association, and even a few producers themselves. Products were evaluated through a blind tasting process.

Hosted by Agri-Expo, the championships focus on preserved fruit and vegetable products across more than 100 classes, ranging from jams, marmalades, chutneys and pickles to pestos and other innovative creations. Only products already available to the public – in stores, farm stalls, online or at markets – were accepted.

PRESERVE CHAMPIONSHIPS HIGHLIGHTS QUALITY, INNOVATION AND HERITAGE

Jooste says innovation is one of the judging criteria and that it was encouraging to see authenticity and creativity go hand in hand. “I am convinced that this competition will have an impact on quality in the market and that consumer confidence in preserve products will grow. We look forward to seeing how shoppers respond to products bearing our awards for exceptional quality on the shelves.”

Breyton Milford, General Manager of Agri-Expo and organiser of the championships, says the high level of interest indicates a clear need within the industry for this kind of platform.

“We created this competition for agri-processors in the fruit and vegetable sector. The large number of entries shows that there is a demand for industry recognition of preserve products – one that places them alongside cheese and wine on the table,” says Milford.

“We are grateful for the support from the industry, with ClemenGold and Hollard involved as gold partners,” Milford adds. “Without their support, this milestone would not have been possible.”

Products were donated to local welfare organisations after the judging.

The awards ceremony, where the winners will be announced, will take place on Tuesday 19 August at Lanzerac in Stellenbosch.