Artisan Milk Sweet from Queluz Wins São Paulo Prize

An artisan milk sweet produced in Queluz, located in the Vale Histórico region of São Paulo, has been awarded the title of the best in the state by the Prêmio Queijo Brasil. This prestigious recognition highlights the product created by Queijaria Santa Vitória, a family-run business situated on Fazenda Santa Vitória since 2022. The queijaria employs approximately 14 people and utilizes all milk produced on the farm to craft artisanal products.

Queijaria Santa Vitória's milk sweet is distinguished by its low sugar content, using only 10% sugar, significantly below the category's standard. According to Carlos Cunha, one of the partners, their process begins with high-quality milk produced on the farm. The sweet is crafted over four hours, during which the milk undergoes quality control and pasteurization before sugar is added during cooking. The cooking phase is crucial, as the mixture is continuously stirred and temperature-controlled until it reaches the desired consistency. After cooling, the product is packaged and undergoes another quality check before sale.

The recognition by Prêmio Queijo Brasil is part of a series of accolades for Queijaria Santa Vitória, which has previously earned medals at international competitions like the Mondial du Fromage in France and the World Cheese Awards in Switzerland. The recognition has increased demand for their products, which also include yogurt, cheese, butter, granola, and sweets made from pumpkin with coconut and papaya.

Fábia Raquel, another partner, emphasizes the years of refinement that have gone into perfecting the recipe and processes, ensuring consistent quality. The award is also seen as a means to promote the Vale Histórico region and boost tourism, showcasing Queluz's agricultural tradition.