IDFA Opens Nominations for 2027 Dairy Industry Leadership Awards

The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) announced on August 28 that it had begun accepting nominations for its 2027 dairy industry awards. Submissions are invited from across the dairy supply chain for recognition of individuals, farms and processing businesses.

The annual programme covers contributions to the North American and international dairy industries, including leadership, operational performance, innovation, sustainability and the sector’s reputation. The awards will be presented in connection with Dairy Forum 2027 in Orlando, Florida.

Four award categories

Nominations are open in four categories: the IDFA Laureate Award, the Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year Award, the IDFA Food Safety Leadership Award and the IDFA Workplace of the Year Award.

The Laureate Award is intended for an experienced dairy-industry figure whose career has included sustained leadership and lasting contributions. Eligible areas include milk, cheese, cultured dairy, ice cream and dairy-ingredient manufacturing, supply or academia.

The Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year Award, co-sponsored with Dairy Herd Management magazine, is open to active dairy producers in the United States. The selection criteria include the use of new technology, herd-management methods, environmental practices and business partnerships. The winning farm will also be assessed on present operating efficiency and its strategic position in relation to economic and supply-chain challenges.

The Food Safety Leadership Award recognises IDFA member companies, specialist working groups and industry professionals that have developed food-safety systems, improved microbiological quality control or led biosecurity and compliance initiatives. The Workplace of the Year Award is for organisations with strong workplace-safety cultures, human-resources development, employee well-being and programmes supporting inclusive staff retention.