Artisanal Minas Cheese Gains International Recognition

In 2017, Raimundo Nonato Santa Rita left his career in São Paulo to return to Fazenda Sobrado, located in the Serro region of Minas Gerais, to continue the family tradition of producing Queijo Minas Artesanal. This decision was influenced by his childhood memories of learning cheese-making from his father, Antônio Santa Rita, who has been dedicated to this craft for over seven decades.

Raimundo's goal was not to innovate but to preserve the traditional methods he learned as a child. The only significant change in the cheese production process was the modernization of the cheese factory to meet current sanitary standards. This blend of tradition and modernity led to the creation of the cheese brand Sô Toní, named in honor of the family patriarch.

Since the revitalization of the cheese production at Fazenda Sobrado, Queijo Minas Artesanal has garnered awards at state, national, and international competitions. These accolades have enhanced the reputation of the cheese from the Serro region.

Beyond his role as a producer, Raimundo Nonato has been active in promoting the geographical indication of the area as the coordinator of the APAQS Regulatory Council. His involvement in the cheese industry also includes serving as a judge in international competitions, both in France and Brazil, as a member of the Guilde Internationale des Fromagers.

This ongoing dedication to maintaining the heritage and quality of Queijo Minas Artesanal underscores the importance of cultural traditions in the global market and highlights the success of the Serro region's cheese on the international stage.