Products made by Lactalis USA’s Nampa, Idaho, plant have received several awards from the American Cheese Society.
The judges awarded a gold medal to Lactalis for Galbani Marinated Fresh Mozzarella, in the category that represents cheeses marinated in liquids and ingredients and made from cow’s milk.
Employment at the Nampa plant has grown to more than 850 in recent years, and the company is hiring, said Don Heins, the company’s U.S. communications manager.
At the competition’s awards ceremony July 19, Lactalis USA received four gold, five silver and three bronze medals. Lactalis Canada received a bronze medal. It is the largest event for American-made cheeses, showcasing talent for cheesemaking and commitment to food safety, according to a company release. Product entries totaled 1,453 from 195 companies.
“It is an honor to see Lactalis products across our broad portfolio recognized among the best in the dairy industry,” Esteve Torrens, CEO of Lactalis USA, said in the release. “I am proud of our employees who are dedicated to perfecting their craft and producing high-quality, nutritious products for consumers across the United States and in our export markets.”
Lactalis USA operates in eight states. It has 11 manufacturing facilities and six corporate offices. It is part of Lactalis Group, a family business founded in 1933 in Laval, France.
Lactalis acquired the Nampa plant from J.R. Simplot Co. in 1999, and in subsequent years modernized and expanded it. The facility of 326,000 square feet produces mozzarella, mascarpone, shredded and string cheeses, and whey powder.
About 90% of the milk that the Nampa plant processes comes from southwest Idaho producers, according to the company.
