Exhibiting at Foodex Japan 2025

About Consorcio de los Quesos Tradicionales de España

Consorcio de los Quesos Tradicionales de España is a prestigious consortium dedicated to preserving and promoting Spain’s rich heritage of artisanal cheeses. Based in Madrid, the consortium unites some of the most traditional cheese producers across Spain, ensuring high-quality, authentic, and geographically protected cheeses reach both domestic and international markets.

Core Business and Specialization

The consortium is committed to supporting traditional cheesemakers by preserving artisanal methods, maintaining geographical indications, and promoting Spanish cheeses globally. It collaborates with local dairy farmers, cheesemakers, and regulatory bodies to maintain the highest quality standards.

Product Offerings

The consortium represents some of Spain’s most iconic cheese varieties, each with Denomination of Origin (D.O.P.) certification, ensuring authenticity, traditional craftsmanship, and regional identity. Key products include:

• Manchego (D.O.P.) – Aged sheep’s milk cheese from La Mancha.
• Roncal (D.O.P.) – Traditional raw sheep’s milk cheese from Navarre.
• Idiazabal (D.O.P.) – Basque Country cheese with a slightly smoked flavor.
• Mahón-Menorca (D.O.P.) – A cow’s milk cheese from the Balearic Islands.
• Cabrales (D.O.P.) – A strong blue cheese from Asturias.
• Tetilla (D.O.P.) – A creamy, mild cow’s milk cheese from Galicia.
• Ibores (D.O.P.) – A paprika-coated goat’s milk cheese from Extremadura.
• Murcia al Vino (D.O.P.) – A goat’s milk cheese washed in red wine.
• Zamorano (D.O.P.) – A hard sheep’s milk cheese from Zamora.
• Majorero (D.O.P.) – A unique goat’s milk cheese from the Canary Islands.

Competitive Advantages and Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

• Authenticity and Tradition: All cheeses adhere to strict Denomination of Origin (D.O.P.) standards.
• Natural Ingredients: No artificial preservatives; only high-quality milk from local dairy farms.
• Handcrafted Production: Traditional cheesemaking methods passed down through generations.
• Sustainability Commitment: Supports local farmers and sustainable dairy farming practices.
• International Market Access: Promotes Spanish cheeses worldwide through export partnerships.

Financial Performance and Market Expansion

The Spanish artisanal cheese market has grown significantly, with a notable increase in global demand for authentic, high-quality cheeses. The consortium has played a vital role in exporting Spain’s finest cheeses, reaching gourmet markets in Europe, North America, and Asia.

• Annual Revenue of Member Cheesemakers: Estimated at €50-€80 million collectively.
• Export Growth: Increasing by 20% annually, with a focus on premium retail and HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering) sectors.
• Key Export Destinations:
  • Europe: France, Germany, UK, Italy
  • North America: USA, Canada
  • Asia: Japan, South Korea, China
• Retail and Distribution: Available in major supermarkets, gourmet food stores, and specialty cheese shops worldwide.

International Shipments and Export Markets

As a leading ambassador of Spanish artisanal cheeses, the consortium has expanded into over 30 international markets, ensuring the global availability of Spain’s finest traditional cheeses.

• Total International Shipments (Last 5 Years): Over 8,000 shipments.
• Major Distribution Partners: High-end retailers, Michelin-star restaurants, and gourmet distributors.
• Strategic Expansion: Focus on premium gourmet food sectors and luxury hospitality industries.

Certifications and Compliance

The consortium ensures strict compliance with European and international food safety regulations, maintaining the highest standards of quality and authenticity.

• D.O.P. (Denomination of Origin Protegida) Certification – Guarantees geographical authenticity and traditional cheesemaking methods.
• ISO 22000 – Global food safety management certification.
• HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) Compliance – Ensuring strict food safety protocols.
• FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) Approval – Meeting U.S. food safety and import standards.
• EU Organic Certification (for select cheeses) – Ensuring sustainable and organic dairy farming practices.

Customer Testimonials

The consortium’s cheeses are highly regarded in gourmet markets, fine dining establishments, and cheese competitions worldwide.

• “Manchego cheese from Consorcio is the best I’ve ever tasted—truly authentic and perfectly aged.” – Gourmet Retailer, France
• “Cabrales blue cheese from the consortium is a delicacy that showcases the rich cheesemaking tradition of Asturias.” – Michelin-Star Chef, Spain
• “We import several cheeses from the consortium, and our customers love the premium quality and authenticity.” – Food Distributor, USA

Major Achievements

• Award-Winning Cheeses: Multiple gold and silver medals at international cheese competitions.
• Top Exporter of Spanish Artisanal Cheeses: Representing 10+ iconic cheese varieties globally.
• Sustainability Leadership: Promoting responsible dairy farming and environmental conservation.
• Gourmet Market Expansion: Increasing presence in luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and specialty cheese boutiques.

Conclusion

Consorcio de los Quesos Tradicionales de España is a leading force in the preservation, promotion, and export of Spain’s most authentic and traditional cheeses. With a commitment to quality, sustainability, and international expansion, the consortium ensures that the world experiences the rich flavors and heritage of Spanish cheesemaking. Its dedication to tradition, excellence, and innovation continues to position it as a trusted partner for cheese enthusiasts, gourmet retailers, and foodservice professionals worldwide.