At the heart of Stellenbosch, South Africa’s renowned wine country, the Aurora International Taste Challenge returned for its 7th year at the close of July 2025, gathering culinary visionaries, industry insiders, and discerning taste-makers from across the globe. Rather than simply recognising excellence, this dynamic event served as a compass, steering both passionate food lovers and mindful shoppers towards trusted, expertly-evaluated products that set benchmarks in quality and taste.
Far more than decorative accolades, these awards signify credibility and trustworthiness in an increasingly crowded market. By prominently featuring the distinctive Aurora award on packaging, digital platforms, and media communications, producers create meaningful connections with consumers seeking guidance and assurance amid abundant choices.
Although brand loyalty continues to drive consumer decisions, today's shoppers actively look beyond familiar names, relying instead on independent, professional endorsements to navigate their selections confidently. In this context, earning recognition from impartial experts provides brands with an influential edge, enabling them to authentically communicate quality and elevate their visibility well beyond traditional marketing efforts.
Michelle Grimbeek, as the convener of judges, summoned some of the world's most accomplished food and drink industry professionals to evaluate the finest products. With over 3000 glasses and tasting containers at their disposal, the rigorous evaluation process began. Assessing each product based on its unique attributes, as well as the standard parameters of appearance, aroma, flavour, texture, and after-taste, it was a formidable challenge to identify the best.
Challenging times often spark remarkable creativity, and this year's Aurora International Taste Challenge participants have embraced change as a catalyst rather than an obstacle. Instead of merely adapting, they've proactively harnessed uncertainty as an opportunity to rethink traditions, introduce bold innovations, and inspire consumer trust through transparency and excellence. In this new era, impartial evaluation isn't just about recognition, it's a vital pathway guiding consumers towards brands committed to quality, resilience, and authenticity.
We would like to thank everybody who entered and who was so well-prepared to deliver samples in time, sometimes from the other side of the world. We would specifically like to thank our partners, DHL, and Jet8 for handling the logistics.
What makes this event different is that many products are judged in the environment they will be used in. Pre-mixes are prepared, coffee can be evaluated with various types of milk. Spirits can be judged with different mixers, and mixers with different spirits. Meats and sausages can be cooked and prepared by chefs in a pan, grill, air fryer or stove. Halloumi cheese will be heated and prepared, and drinks, cordials and syrups are mixed with sparkling water, hot or cold milk. The idea is to judge products in the environment and situation they will be enjoyed by consumers.
The global environment for food and drink producers today is dynamic, shaped by rapidly changing consumer preferences and heightened competition. Producers must adapt quickly to emerging trends such as the demand for plant-based, organic, and sustainably sourced products. With consumers increasingly aware of health and environmental issues, transparency about sourcing, ingredients, and production processes have become critical for success.
Despite these opportunities, the industry faces significant challenges, including supply chain disruptions, fluctuating commodity prices, and increasing regulatory scrutiny. Producers must remain agile, finding ways to enhance resilience through strategic sourcing, improved sustainability practices, and stronger relationships with suppliers and customers. In a world where uncertainty has become commonplace, producers who anticipate changes and respond proactively are most likely to succeed and grow.
The global drinks industry is undergoing significant shifts driven by consumer demand for beverages that prioritise health, convenience, and sustainability. Kombucha, juices, and ready-to-drink (RTD) alcoholic beverages stand out for their rapid growth and innovative production methods.
Recent innovations in kombucha production have focused on enhancing fermentation consistency, improving flavour profiles, and expanding product variety. Researchers developed tailored starter cultures and explored alternative fermentation vessels, such as silicone bags, to standardise microbial activity and accelerate fermentation, producing smoother, more palatable beverages. Experimentation with different sugar substrates, including glucose and fructose, is also ongoing to refine taste and control alcohol levels. Additionally, the emergence of hard kombucha, fermented to contain 4–7% alcohol by volume, has significantly grown, appealing to consumers interested in natural, fermented alcoholic alternatives, thus broadening kombucha’s consumer base and market reach.
Juice products have also transformed, driven by the demand for more nutritious and flavourful beverages. Producers have introduced cold-pressed juices that preserve natural flavours and nutrients, blending fruits with vegetables, herbs, and functional ingredients like turmeric or ginger. This focus on quality and innovative recipes appeals to consumers interested in wellness and clean ingredients. Sustainable sourcing and eco-friendly packaging further enhance their appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
The RTD alcoholic beverage market has grown rapidly, attracting consumers with premium ingredients and exciting flavours. Popular products such as canned cocktails, hard seltzers, and pre-mixed drinks have become favourites due to their convenience and varied tastes. Producers innovate by combining traditional spirits with natural fruit flavours, herbs, and botanicals to create distinctive beverages. The emphasis on quality ingredients and balanced flavours helps these drinks appeal to consumers seeking enjoyable, lower-alcohol options without compromising taste.
Overall, innovation in product quality and creativity in flavour development have become central to success in the drinks industry. Producers who consistently deliver unique, high-quality beverages tailored to evolving consumer preferences are best positioned to thrive in this dynamic global market.
The biggest single non-alcoholic drink class was the Energy Drink class, followed by Soft Drinks, drinks that had to be prepared, Kombucha and fruit juice.
As in previous years, the judges were thoroughly impressed by the diversity and quality of drinks presented, noting significant improvements across categories. The entrants displayed remarkable creativity, pushing boundaries with innovative flavours and ingredients, enhancing the tasting experience.
Particularly striking was the transformation observed in the energy and sports drinks segment. Traditionally viewed as medicinal or functional rather than enjoyable, this year's offerings surprised the panel by delivering exceptional taste and appealing flavours. Judges highlighted how these beverages successfully balanced functionality with genuine consumer appeal, setting a new standard for the category.
This year's event once again shone a spotlight on kombucha, yet revealed notable shifts compared to previous tastings. Kombucha continues to ride a wave of global popularity, bolstered by increasing consumer interest in health-conscious choices and functional beverages. This year's entrants featured significant flavour innovation, moving well beyond traditional offerings. Producers introduced novel ingredients aimed at boosting nutritional benefits, clearly reflecting consumer demand for healthier lifestyles. Furthermore, kombucha's natural low-sugar content and probiotic qualities aligned perfectly with contemporary wellness trends, facilitating its broader acceptance and increasing mainstream appeal.
In this tasting session, kombucha showcased remarkable diversity, ranging from vibrant, fruity-sweet expressions to those distinctly tart and refreshingly sour. The judges noted considerable variation in acidity levels, with some samples offering a pronounced tartness while others demonstrated a smoother, more harmonious balance. Carbonation levels were equally diverse, spanning highly effervescent brews to subtly sparkling varieties, highlighting the creative flexibility producers are now employing within this dynamic category.
The highest quality kombuchas stood out distinctly, featuring exceptionally balanced and nuanced flavour profiles. These top-tier examples achieved an impressive harmony between sweetness and acidity, coupled with enjoyable carbonation that enhanced their complexity. Clearly produced from superior ingredients and brewed meticulously, these premium kombuchas represented outstanding craftsmanship, reinforcing kombucha’s position as a sophisticated, internationally recognised beverage.
A surprising favourite among the judges was the non-alcoholic alternative drinks, and the drinks that had to be prepared, including the cordials, had great variety and spoke of the ingenuity of the producers.
Brewers from around the globe showcased innovative techniques and unique ingredients, significantly expanding the landscape of beer styles. The tasting revealed an impressive spectrum, including delicately flavoured lighter ales.
Ciders, exhibited notable diversity, with an impressive range of styles reflecting both tradition and innovation. Some entries presented delightfully sweet, fruity characteristics, offering refreshing sweetness balanced elegantly by subtle acidity. Conversely, other ciders leaned towards dry, crisp finishes marked by pronounced tartness and vibrant acidity. The cider class continues to evolve positively each year, demonstrating growing craftsmanship and increasingly sophisticated approaches from producers worldwide.
Mead was a surprising large class this year, showing great class and diversity.
This year saw a wonderful up tick in the number of wines entered, and the judges were pleasantly surprised. The wines represented a large scale of the wine spectrum, and wines from all over the world were tasted. This was only the second year that wines came to the forefront, and it is an exciting sign of things to come.
This year’s tasting of spirits and liqueurs revealed an exceptional diversity, highlighting exciting new trends and a remarkable global representation. Gins captured particular attention, moving beyond traditional juniper-led flavours to showcase an intriguing mix of herbs, spices, and exotic botanicals. While the classic London Dry gins retained their refined simplicity, contemporary styles confidently introduced innovative elements, enhancing complexity and pushing flavour boundaries to new heights.
In the rum category, the tasting illustrated an impressive breadth of styles and profiles, reflecting the distinctive characteristics of production.
Liqueurs rounded off the tasting, each bottle expressing its unique cultural heritage and distinctive personality. The judges appreciated the balance of sweetness, alcohol strength, and nuanced flavour profiles across the category, demonstrating how producers skillfully combine traditional methods with innovative techniques. Collectively, these tastings celebrated the vibrant creativity and meticulous craftsmanship underpinning today's dynamic spirits and liqueur market.
Over the past three years, the coffee and tea industries have undergone considerable changes, heavily influenced by evolving consumer preferences, particularly the growing demand for healthier beverage choices. This shift has increased the popularity of functional teas, herbal infusions, and coffees enhanced with wellness-oriented ingredients, such as adaptogens or vitamins. Producers have responded swiftly, introducing innovative products tailored to health-conscious customers, thus creating entirely new categories within these traditionally well-defined markets.
Sustainability and ethical considerations have also prominently shaped both industries. Consumers now expect transparency regarding product sourcing, fair-trade practices, and responsible packaging. Brands and producers have embraced sustainable agriculture methods, certifications such as organic or Rainforest Alliance, and biodegradable packaging solutions. This move toward ethical responsibility has strengthened customer loyalty and positioned forward-thinking companies favourably in the competitive global marketplace.
Technological advancements and the rise of digital platforms have similarly transformed consumer engagement and distribution channels. The increased reliance on e-commerce, accelerated significantly by global disruptions, has opened new opportunities, especially for smaller, artisanal brands previously limited by traditional retail constraints. Concurrently, the popularity of sophisticated home-brewing equipment and specialty coffee machines has elevated consumer expectations, creating demand for premium-quality products designed for at-home preparation.
These combined factors, consumer wellness preferences, sustainability imperatives, and technological innovation, continue to redefine the coffee and tea industries. Producers and brands that successfully navigate these evolving influences have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, effectively positioning themselves to capitalise on emerging market opportunities.
This year’s coffee tasting provided an exciting exploration of new origins and innovative formats, highlighting the industry's evolving character. A remarkable range of single-origin coffees was presented, each distinctly communicating the terroir and story of its cultivation. Compared to previous tastings, the emphasis shifted towards diversity, with producers showcasing previously underrepresented regions, delivering unique flavours shaped by local growing conditions.
The roasting techniques were especially diverse this year, illuminating the full potential of different beans. Light roasts elegantly revealed subtle floral aromas and gentle fruit characteristics, delicately expressing the nuances of origin. Medium roasts offered impressive balance, with harmonious combinations of chocolate undertones, fruit sweetness, and smooth, rounded textures, pleasing tasters with their complexity.
Darker roasts also made a compelling impact, demonstrating the intense, earthy, and bold qualities inherent in specific coffee varietals. Judges noted how these richer profiles accentuated deeper flavours like cocoa, toasted nuts, and subtle spice, illustrating the influence of roasting style in shaping consumer experiences. Coffees cultivated at higher altitudes stood out prominently, praised for their bright acidity, crisp mouthfeel, and vibrant character.
Processing methods were another focal point, providing tasters an opportunity to appreciate the spectrum of flavours achieved through careful handling. Natural processing delivered intensely sweet, fruit-forward notes, while washed coffees provided clarity, highlighting crisp, refreshing flavours. These methods reinforced the remarkable skill and expertise of producers, emphasising how processing significantly influences the coffee’s final profile.
Perhaps most notably, entries expanded significantly beyond traditional brewed coffees this year. A surprising increase in submissions included coffee pods and milk-based coffees, reflecting changing consumer preferences for convenience and versatility. Particularly, the pod category exhibited substantial growth, with quality and flavour complexity rivaling traditionally brewed options, signalling a promising shift towards innovation and accessibility within the global coffee landscape.
The global olive and olive oil industry has undergone significant transformation in recent years, driven by changing consumer preferences, evolving agricultural practices, and economic shifts. Consumer demand for high-quality extra virgin olive oil continues to grow, propelled by increasing awareness of its health benefits and culinary versatility. This trend has led producers, particularly in traditional regions like Spain, Italy, and Greece, to invest heavily in quality control and advanced production techniques to maintain competitiveness in an expanding international market.
Simultaneously, newer producing countries, such as Australia, the United States, and Chile, have emerged as influential players. These countries often leverage modern agricultural technology, innovative processing methods, and robust marketing strategies to differentiate their products. As a result, the global olive oil landscape is becoming increasingly competitive, with traditional producers challenged to adapt swiftly to maintain market share and premium pricing.
Environmental challenges and climate change further complicate industry dynamics. Extreme weather events, prolonged drought, and changing seasonal patterns significantly impact olive yields, posing threats to production stability. In response, the industry is rapidly embracing sustainability practices and resilience-focused agriculture to safeguard long-term production capacity. The result is a dynamic, continuously evolving sector that balances tradition and innovation in response to global demand and environmental realities.
The olive and Olive oil tasters. From the left Benedetta Lami, Jackie Loubser and Linda Costa.
This year’s tasting of olive oil and olives offered a remarkable showcase of local production. An impressive diversity of olive oils was presented, revealing the extraordinary range in flavours, textures, and aromas achievable through different varietals, processing techniques, and regions.
The extra virgin olive oils featured distinct expressions of fruitiness, from freshly harvested green olives offering grassy, herbaceous tones to riper olives delivering mellow, fruity fragrances. Judges were particularly intrigued by oils that exhibited a harmonious balance—those that skilfully combined delicate aromas and subtle nuttiness with hints of peppery pungency. The contrasting intensity between the delicate, elegant oils and robust, assertive ones underlined producers' careful choices regarding harvest timing and extraction methods.
The influence of terroir emerged clearly in the tasting, as each olive oil reflected unique regional characteristics. Oils from cooler climates demonstrated refined, buttery textures and smooth finishes, while those from warmer regions displayed robust, pronounced bitterness and persistent, spicy aftertastes. These nuances confirmed how variations in climate, soil composition, and cultivation practices significantly influence the complexity and individuality of olive oils.
Notably, the tasting found that freshness greatly impacted overall quality. Older oils generally struggled, displaying diminished flavour intensity and occasional faults, leading to their exclusion from higher recognition. This finding reinforced the importance of timely harvesting and optimal storage conditions, emphasising freshness as a key determinant of excellence.
The olives themselves provided a complementary yet distinct experience. The tasting revealed a rich spectrum of colours, sizes, and flavours, with most entries showing commendable quality and pure, authentic characteristics. Although a few samples faced textural inconsistencies, the majority impressed judges with their firmness and appealing flavour balance, reflecting careful processing and attentive handling from orchard to table.
The judges were overwhelmed with the quality this year, praising the good complexity, balance and harmony of the products evaluated.
The global meat and charcuterie market continues to experience significant growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences, heightened demand for artisanal products, and increasing emphasis on sustainability. Consumers worldwide now seek greater transparency, leading to stronger demand for ethically produced, sustainably sourced meats and charcuterie. Producers have responded by adopting higher welfare standards, clearer traceability measures, and environmentally friendly packaging solutions. Additionally, premiumisation has driven innovation, with producers introducing artisanal products featuring unique flavour combinations, heritage breeds, and specialised curing methods.
Health-conscious and plant-based trends have also influenced traditional meat markets, compelling producers to offer lower-fat, reduced-sodium charcuterie alternatives. Many brands now focus on developing healthier, nitrate-free, or minimally processed meat products, aiming to attract a broader consumer base. Innovative preservation techniques, such as natural fermentations and advanced ageing processes, have enhanced flavours and extended shelf life. Overall, the global meat and charcuterie market remains dynamic, reflecting evolving consumer preferences and ongoing innovation.
Charcuterie, cooked and uncooked sausages, patties, bacon and other meat products in a wide variety of styles were tasted, and the quality and diversity were evident.
This year's tasting event provided a remarkable display of global charcuterie craftsmanship, highlighting distinctive products not previously showcased. Attendees were introduced to an intriguing assortment of cured meats, each narrating a distinct story rooted deeply in regional traditions. Delicately air-dried hams offered nuanced profiles, their subtle textures carefully achieved through patient maturation, while meticulously smoked meats delivered robust, intensely savoury experiences. This diversity underscored the evolving artistry in meat preservation, revealing how producers skillfully blend heritage practices with contemporary innovation to enhance flavour and texture.
A notable highlight was the impressive variety of artisanal salamis and speciality cured sausages, which captivated tasters with their complexity. Judges remarked on the nuanced interplay of carefully chosen spices, demonstrating exceptional precision in seasoning and ageing techniques. Some varieties boasted delicate notes of fennel, garlic, or pepper, while others stood out with deeper, earthier spice blends and bold, lingering finishes. Overall, the event provided a comprehensive insight into charcuterie, celebrating producers who masterfully balance tradition and creativity to create products of remarkable distinction. The result was an inspiring showcase of culinary expertise, reflecting significant advancement in both quality and innovation compared to previous years.
At this year's tasting event, bacon emerged as a particularly dynamic category, reflecting a vibrant range of international styles and culinary creativity. Producers from diverse regions presented bacon showcasing intriguing combinations of flavours, moving beyond conventional recipes to incorporate innovative seasonings. Samples ranged from delicately sweet, maple-infused varieties that brought forward caramelised notes, to boldly seasoned, spicy alternatives, demonstrating bacon's impressive adaptability across various cuisines and culinary traditions.
Significantly, the event highlighted distinctive approaches to curing and smoking techniques. Tasters noted marked differences between smoked and unsmoked products, influenced by the choice of wood and duration of smoking. Traditional hardwoods imparted deep, savoury notes and rich aromas, while lighter woods produced subtler flavours. Moreover, dry-cured bacons offered firm textures and intensified seasoning, contrasting with wet-cured options that delivered a softer bite and milder flavour. Overall, the event celebrated the evolving craftsmanship of bacon producers globally, underscoring innovative developments that continue to redefine bacon’s culinary appeal.
This year's sausage tasting revealed an impressive variety of products, demonstrating significant developments and fresh interpretations compared to previous events. Judges sampled sausages reflecting culinary traditions from diverse regions around the globe, noting unique flavour combinations and inventive approaches. Fresh sausages stood out prominently, with innovative ingredient pairings such as herbs, spices, and even fruits, complementing traditional pork-based recipes. Both cured and fresh varieties were featured, highlighting producers' creativity and mastery in balancing traditional recipes with contemporary tastes.
Notably, preparation and preservation methods varied extensively, creating a broad spectrum of textures and flavour profiles. Grilled sausages charmed tasters with smoky undertones, juicy textures, and distinctive seasoning blends, while gently cured varieties offered deeper, more concentrated flavours with nuanced complexity. The range from mildly spiced to boldly flavoured sausages further illustrated the global scope and cultural diversity inherent within sausage-making traditions. Overall, the tasting event provided a vibrant celebration of international culinary expertise and innovation in sausage production.
At this year's event, the tasting showcased an exciting new variety of expertly crafted meat products, distinctively different from previous years. Judges sampled succulent pork ribs, carefully shaped hamburger patties, and tender, slow-cooked specialities, each demonstrating exceptional culinary skill and flavour innovation.
The diversity extended to beautifully seasoned cuts, reflecting global culinary influences and creative approaches to preparation. Overall, the range highlighted the producers’ dedication to meticulous seasoning, precise cooking methods, and ingredient selection, resulting in an impressive array of products that clearly illustrated the evolving creativity and craftsmanship within the meat industry.
This year's tasting event showcased an exciting variety of convenient culinary options, significantly distinct from previous events, with an emphasis on innovative flavour combinations and enhanced freshness. Judges sampled an array of gourmet frozen meals, premium microwavable snacks, and creatively prepared heat-and-eat specialities. Many items displayed elevated culinary sophistication, blending quality ingredients with thoughtful preparation, resulting in products that were both delicious and convenient for consumers.
The diverse selection featured international cuisines, ranging from street-food inspired dishes to gourmet-style frozen meals and snacks. Notably, producers emphasised freshness and authenticity, delivering convenience without compromising on quality or flavour complexity. Highlights included creatively seasoned heat-and-eat snacks, meals inspired by global recipes, and carefully packaged dishes designed to preserve freshness and nutritional integrity. The tasting underlined a growing consumer preference for convenience foods that blend ease-of-preparation with genuine culinary enjoyment, reflecting evolving dining habits and the increasing global demand for high-quality, readily accessible food products.
This event is just starting to scratch the surface when it comes to this category, but there were some remarkable entries. The meat alternatives surprised the judges, giving them a possible glimpse into the future.
The global dairy industry continues to experience substantial transformation driven by shifting consumer preferences, technological advancements, and evolving dietary trends. Demand for healthier, natural, and sustainably sourced dairy products has increased significantly, prompting producers to introduce organic and grass-fed ranges. Additionally, consumers are seeking transparency about farming practices, animal welfare standards, and environmental impact, reshaping production methods across major dairy markets.
Technological innovation is another key driver reshaping the industry, particularly in processing and product development. New dairy products incorporating probiotics, reduced lactose content, and fortified nutritional profiles are growing in popularity. Furthermore, innovations in packaging and processing techniques, such as ultra-filtration and high-pressure pasteurisation, have improved shelf-life, product quality, and distribution capabilities, enabling dairy companies to reach broader global markets.
Simultaneously, the rise of plant-based alternatives has pushed traditional dairy producers to adapt. In response, dairy brands are increasingly investing in lactose-free, protein-enriched, or probiotic-enhanced products to retain consumers who seek functional benefits. The resulting landscape is highly dynamic, characterised by constant innovation and fierce competition, as companies strive to balance traditional offerings with modern consumer demands for nutrition, convenience, and environmental sustainability
This was the fifth year that dairy products were evaluated. Entrants ranged from very artisanal and small to big producers. The event was open to both dairy products, and non-dairy alternatives.
A great variety of unripened cheeses were entered, ranging from Fior de Latte and Marscapone to Buratta and Bocconcini. The judges were impressed with the skills exhibited by the producers and the quality of the products. The ripened cheeses also impressed, with the skill of the cheese makers very evident.
There were halloumi skewers, yogurt, butter and gelatos to enjoy and savour.
Of all the categories, the dairy category was probably the most competitive, with the highest average quality of all the categories.
Over the past three years, the global condiments and sauces industry has witnessed notable shifts, driven by changing consumer tastes and a growing appetite for bold flavours. Demand for spicy and ethnic sauces has surged, with consumers increasingly exploring flavours inspired by Asian, Latin American, and Middle Eastern cuisines.
Health-conscious consumers are also influencing market dynamics, prompting producers to innovate with reduced-sugar, lower-sodium, and natural ingredients. Organic, gluten-free, and vegan sauces have gained significant traction, appealing to consumers who prioritise wellness without compromising taste.
Sustainability and ethical sourcing have become key trends shaping the industry. Brands are actively promoting transparency in ingredient sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, and responsible production practices, responding to consumer demands for accountability.
Digitalisation and e-commerce growth have significantly changed distribution channels, allowing small and artisanal producers to enter global markets. This has diversified offerings, introducing consumers worldwide to niche and regional sauces, further enriching the global culinary landscape.
The Condiment and Sauce entries varied greatly, with Chilli-based sauces having the highest number of entries per class. The judges were surprised by the producer's focus on depth of flavour, rather than just focusing on heat.
This year’s condiment tasting event presented an exciting selection, distinctively different from previous tastings, highlighting innovation and a fresh exploration of flavour combinations. While spicy sauces continued to captivate attendees, the event introduced unique pepper blends and unexpected ingredients, creating new layers of complexity. From zesty peri-peri blends to subtly spiced jalapeño relishes, producers creatively balanced heat with bold aromatics, showcasing culinary craftsmanship.
The tasting also explored condiments beyond heat, placing greater emphasis on regional specialities and diverse culinary influences. Standouts included tangy, herb-infused mayonnaises, richly flavoured country-specific sauces, and unique sweet-savoury pairings such as fruit-based chutneys. These selections highlighted global cultural expressions, demonstrating producers' abilities to incorporate tradition and innovation effectively.
Overall, the event celebrated the dynamic evolution of condiments, underscoring their essential role in enhancing culinary experiences. Attendees experienced how condiments can elevate dishes, balancing sweetness, acidity, and heat to transform simple foods into memorable and sophisticated meals.
Some individual specialized sauces stood out, while some meat sauces strongly came to the fore.
This year’s preserves tasting revealed an exciting selection of high-quality products, showcasing both tradition and innovation. While classic recipes evoked nostalgia, modern interpretations brought bold new flavours and refined techniques, elevating this often-overlooked category to new heights.
Judges noted how exceptional craftsmanship and ingredient quality transformed simple preserves into standout creations. From delicately balanced fruit spreads to richly textured chutneys, the tasting highlighted products that exceeded expectations, proving that preserves remain a treasured and evolving part of the culinary world.
We were delighted to have some excellent examples, some received from the other side of the world. In particular, there were stellar examples of preserves from Hawaii, and superb honey from South Africa.
This year saw a great variety of entries ranging from Stroopwafels, to buns, and from Gummies to fudge. The judges had a royal time judging the entries.
This year’s tasting event showcased an impressive variety of spices, with an exciting mix of bold and inventive flavours. Judges were particularly impressed by unique blends that elevated familiar ingredients, bringing depth and complexity to the competition.
Standout entries included avocado spice, rich and smoky braai blends, and expertly crafted lamb rubs. These selections demonstrated innovation while honouring traditional seasoning techniques, making this year’s spice category one of the most dynamic yet.
This year’s prestigious food and drinks event surpassed expectations, drawing an extraordinary international response and celebrating the brilliance of producers worldwide. The dedication and creativity on display were truly inspiring, with every participant bringing something unique to the table. Our sincere gratitude goes to the hardworking teams behind the scenes and the visionary artisans whose passion made this event a resounding success.
The standard of entries this year reflected an industry in full momentum, with producers demonstrating not only exceptional craftsmanship but also a bold, forward-thinking approach. From time-honoured traditions to groundbreaking innovations, the diversity of products showcased a commitment to pushing boundaries and shaping the future of food and drink. This year’s entries proved that producers are more determined than ever to take control of their craft and elevate their offerings to new heights.
Reflecting on this year’s competition, it is clear that the landscape of food and drink continues to evolve at an exhilarating pace. With daring new concepts, refined techniques, and a fearless spirit of experimentation, producers challenged expectations and redefined excellence. Their relentless pursuit of innovation and quality is driving the industry forward, setting new benchmarks and ensuring that the future of food and drink is brighter than ever.
We would like to thank the companies who entered, the staff who made this event possible, and our partners:
The dates for The Aurora International Taste Challenge 2026 will be announced in February 2026.
For any enquiries, visit www.aurorachallenge.com, or email hello@aurorachallenge.com
| Participant | Product | Award |
|---|---|---|
| 4th Avenue Café | 4th Avenue Coffee Roasters Legendary Pink | Silver |
| Aanlynspens | Katswink Balsamic reduction with black figs, dates, and rum. | Silver |
| Alliance Foods Service | Locke's Tomato Sauce | Double Gold |
| Alliance Foods Service | Craft Raw Cape Honey | Gold |
| Artessa | East Africa, 100% Arabica coffee blend | Double Gold |
| Artessa | Guatemala, 100% Arabica coffee | Gold |
| Artessa | Fusion, 100% Arabica coffee blend | Silver |
| Artisan Kombucha | Artisan Kombucha - Rosehip & Hibiscus | Double Gold |
| Artisan Kombucha | Artisan Kombucha - Lemon & Lime | Gold |
| Babylonstoren Charcuterie | BT Boerewors | Gold |
| Babylonstoren Charcuterie | BT Coppa | Gold |
| Babylonstoren Charcuterie | Lochess Salami | Gold |
| Babylonstoren Dairy | Honey and fig leaf gelato | Double Gold |
| Babylonstoren Dairy | Spiced Rooibos Gelato | Double Gold |
| Babylonstoren Dairy | Waterbuffalo Yogurt | Silver |
| Babylonstoren Dairy | Buffalo Mozarella | Silver |
| Babylonstoren Dairy | Waterbuffalo Halloumi | Silver |
| Babylonstoren Food | Roasted & Salted Almonds | Double Gold |
| Babylonstoren Food | Kalamata & Anchovy Tapenade | Double Gold |
| Babylonstoren Food | Kalamata & Herbs Tapenade | Double Gold |
| Babylonstoren Food | Honeybush | Gold |
| Babylonstoren Food | Roasted & Salted Macadamias | Gold |
| Babylonstoren Food | Roasted Macadamia Nut Butter | Gold |
| Babylonstoren Food | Sundried Tomato Pesto | Gold |
| Babylonstoren Food | Nocellara Olive Hummus | Gold |
| Babylonstoren Food | Rooibos | Silver |
| Babylonstoren Food | Chianina Beef Lasagne | Silver |
| Babylonstoren Food | Chicken Curry | Silver |
| Babylonstoren Food | Kalamata Olives in Brine -Whole | Double Gold |
| Babylonstoren Food | Extra Virgin Olive Oil Blend | Silver |
| Babylonstoren Food | Nocellara Olives in Brine - Whole | Silver |
| Banhoek Chilli Oil Co. | Banhoek Chilli Oil Garlic 250ml | Silver |
| Blackwood Spirits | Blackwood Spirits London Dry Gin | Gold |
| Blackwood Spirits | Blackwood Spirits Cape Kelp Gin | Silver |
| Blue Swallow Innovation | Instabean Coffee Freezo & Latte Powder Blend | Gold |
| Blue Swallow Innovation | Nettari Tiramisu Flavoured Syrup | Gold |
| Blue Swallow Innovation | Instabean No Added Sugar Coffee Freezo & Latte Powder Blend | Silver |
| Blue Swallow Innovation | Nettari Sugar Free Red Cherry & Rooibos Ice Tea Flavoured Syrup | Silver |
| Brandefyn | Premium Potstill Brandy | Silver |
| BRM Brands | Made Without Added Nitrites Wood Smoked Streaky Bacon | Gold |
| BRM Brands | Made Without Added Nitrites Wood Smoked Back Bacon | Silver |
| BRM Brands | Smoked Pork Viennas | Silver |
| BRM Brands | BRM Pork Loin Ribs | Silver |
| BRM Brands | Free Range Slow Cooked Lamb Tripe in Curry Sauce | Silver |
| Burner Room | HOT DêM (Chocolate) | Silver |
| Bush Hill Cheese | Brie | Double Gold |
| Bush Hill Cheese | Camembert | Double Gold |
| Bush Hill Cheese | Lactose Free Greek Yoghurt | Silver |
| Bush Hill Cheese | Strawberry Yoghurt | Silver |
| Cape Herb & Spice | Chilli Crunch | Gold |
| Cape Herb & Spice | Smashed Avo Seasoning | Gold |
| Cape Herb & Spice | Everything Seasoning | Gold |
| Carltrev cc trading as Riverbend farm | Riverbend Extra Virgin Olive oil | Gold |
| Carne Biltong | Beef Biltong | Gold |
| Carne Biltong | Beef Droëwors | Gold |
| Carne Biltong | Kudu Biltong | Gold |
| Carne Biltong | Kudu Droëwors | Silver |
| Cavalier | Woolworths Free Range Lamb Rump Steak | Double Gold |
| Cavalier | Woolworths Pork Banger | Gold |
| Cavalier | Woolworths Wagyu Beef Burger | Gold |
| Cavalier | Woolworths Matured Thick Cut Angus Beef Rib Eye Steak | Gold |
| Cavalier | Woolworths Smoked Salami Sticks | Gold |
| Cavalier | Woolworths Butchery Counter Wagyu Beef Biltong | Gold |
| Cavalier | Woolworths Smoked Sliced German Style Salami | Silver |
| Chateau Gateaux | Chateau Gateaux Raspberry Mozart | Double Gold |
| Chateau Gateaux | Mini Blueberry Cheesecake | Gold |
| Cylamax Trading | Lebanese garlic sauce (Toum) | Silver |
| Dargle Valley Meats | Honey Baked Ham | Double Gold |
| Dargle Valley Meats | American Style Hot dog | Double Gold |
| Dargle Valley Meats | Smoked Pork Belly | Gold |
| de Pekelaar | Matured Boerenkaas | Double Gold |
| de Pekelaar | Cumin Boerenkaas | Gold |
| De Rustica Olive Estate | De Rustica Estate Coratina | Double Gold |
| De Rustica Olive Estate | De Rustica Estate Medium | Gold |
| Delagoa Bay Butter Sauce Co. | Chilli Coriander Compound Butter | Double Gold |
| Delagoa Bay Butter Sauce Co. | Rosemary Thyme Compound Butter | Double Gold |
| Delagoa Bay Butter Sauce Co. | Original Piri Compound Butter | Gold |
| Delagoa Bay Butter Sauce Co. | Lemon & Herb Compound Butter | Silver |
| Delagoa Bay Butter Sauce Co. | Traditional Piri-Piri | Silver |
| Die Uil Craft Stookhuis | Buskruit Gin | Silver |
| Difference Coffee | Brazil "Swiss Water" Decaf | Gold |
| Difference Coffee | Hawaii Kona | Gold |
| Difference Coffee | Panama Geisha - Elida Natural | Gold |
| Difference Coffee | Brazil Yellow Bourbon | Silver |
| Dr. Trouble | DR. TROUBLE Double Oak Smoked | Silver |
| Dr. Trouble | DR. TROUBLE Lemon Chilli | Silver |
| Dr. Trouble SA | Troublenaise | Silver |
| Drunken Horse Gin | Drunken Horse Limoncella | Gold |
| Earthen Coffee Roasters | Revere Blend | Gold |
| Earthen Coffee Roasters | Central Blend | Silver |
| Earthshiine CC | Activated Cashews - Spicy Thai | Gold |
| Earthshiine CC | Fabulous Figs | Silver |
| Earthshiine CC | Macadamia Nuts - Malty Mesquite and Vanilla | Silver |
| Efoods | Mr Sauce, BBQ Sauce | Gold |
| Efoods | Mr Sauce, Tangy Mayo (egg-yolk only) | Gold |
| Efoods | Mr Sauce, Creamy Greek Dressing | Gold |
| Efoods | X Hot - Miri Piri - Hot Chilli Sauce | Silver |
| Efoods | Mr Sauce, Tomato Sauce | Silver |
| Efoods | Miri Piri - Hot Chilli Sauce | Silver |
| Efoods | Mr Sauce, Creamy Mayo (Vegan) | Silver |
| Elgin Vintage Cider | Original pear cider | Gold |
| Elgin Vintage Cider | Pomegranate Sparkling Apple 0% Alcohol | Gold |
| Elgin Vintage Cider | Original Sparkling Apple 0% Alcohol | Silver |
| Euphorika | Africa's premium, sparkling sceletium beverage. An alcohol-free botanical beverage with a functional effect. | Gold |
| Farm Hill Dairy | Creamed Cottage Cheese | Gold |
| Farm Hill Dairy | Cream Cheese Medium Fat | Silver |
| Funky Ouma | Braai Salt by Funky Ouma | Silver |
| Fynbos Fine Foods | Lemon Chilli Sauce | Gold |
| Fynbos Fine Foods | Habanero Salt | Gold |
| Fynbos Fine Foods | African Ghost Pepper Sauce | Silver |
| Fynbos Fine Foods | Smoked Chilli Pesto | Silver |
| Fynbos Fine Foods | African Dream Sauce | Silver |
| Fynbos Fine Foods | Chilli Jam with Ginger | Silver |
| Georgie's Pork | Georgie's Wood Smoked Streaky Bacon | Double Gold |
| Gracious Bakers | Gracious Bakers Allergen-Free Bread Flour - 100% Gluten-Free, Vegan. | Silver |
| Gracious Bakers | Gracious Bakers Pizza Pre-Mix | Silver |
| Great Karoo Spirit | Bossieveld Mystique Craft Gin | Gold |
| Great Karoo Spirit | Bossieveld Inspiration Craft Gin | Silver |
| Green Farms Nut Company | Cold-Pressed Virgin Macadamia Oil | Double Gold |
| Hariss International Limited Uganda | Riham Oner Mango Fruit Drink | Gold |
| Hariss International Limited Uganda | Riham Rock Boom (Carbonated caffeinated energy drink) | Silver |
| Hariss International Limited Uganda | Riham Oner Apple Fruit Drink | Silver |
| Heineken Beverages | Savanna Premium Cider Dry | Gold |
| Heineken Beverages | Savanna Premium Cider Angry Lemon | Gold |
| Heineken Beverages | Savanna Premium Cider Neat | Gold |
| Heineken Beverages | Savanna Premium Cider Light | Silver |
| Het Vlock Casteel | Lemon Infused Olive Oil | Gold |
| Hive and Earth | Fynbos Honey | Double Gold |
| Hive and Earth | Smokey Hot Honey | Silver |
| Hive and Earth | Buffalo Thorn Honey | Silver |
| Hive and Earth | Korean Style Gochujang Hot Honey | Silver |
| Holland Bakery | Holland Bakery Stroopwafels | Gold |
| Honig-Met und Trinkhörner | Honig-Met Classic | Double Gold |
| Honig-Met und Trinkhörner | Honig-Met Chile Mountain | Double Gold |
| Honig-Met und Trinkhörner | Met-Sonnenblume | Gold |
| Inah International Superior Products | Inah Superior Shiraz Grape Juice | Gold |
| Inah International Superior Products | Inah Superior Merlot Grape Juice | Gold |
| Jääde | Jääde Natural Spring Water | Gold |
| Joekels Tea Packers | Tetley Original Chai Latte | Double Gold |
| Joekels Tea Packers | Tetley Peach & Orange Green tea with Vitamin C | Gold |
| Karoo Pak | Karoo Pomegranate Rouge Liqueur | Gold |
| Karoo Pak | Karoo Wonderful Pomegranate Reduction | Gold |
| Karoo Pak | Karoo Wonderful Pomegranate juice | Silver |
| Karoo Pak | Karoo Wonderful Pomegranate Fruit Pop | Silver |
| Khoisan Trading Company | Khoisan Fleur De Sel | Double Gold |
| Khoisan Trading Company | Khoisan Fine Salt | Gold |
| KickSalt | KickSalt Herb | Gold |
| KickSalt | KickSalt Original | Silver |
| KickSalt | KickSalt All Purpose | Silver |
| KickSalt | Classic KickSalt Potato Chips | Silver |
| KickSalt | KickSalt Cheesy Spring Onion Potato Chips | Silver |
| Kleine Haaskraal | Kleine Haaskraal Extra Virgin Olive Oil Mission | Double Gold |
| Kleine Haaskraal | Kleine Haaskraal Extra Virgin Olive Oil Frantoio | Double Gold |
| Kleine Haaskraal | Kleine Haaskraal Extra Virgin Olive Oil Coratina | Double Gold |
| Kombucha Vallesana | Kombucha Vallesana Natural | Double Gold |
| König Coffee Pty Ltd | Java Reserve Beans | Gold |
| König Coffee Pty Ltd | Barista Espresso Beans | Silver |
| La Montanara Melkery | Haloumi burgers | Double Gold |
| La Montanara Melkery | Haloumi Kebabs | Gold |
| La Montanara Melkery | Heidi's Bergkäse | Gold |
| La Montanara Melkery | Ashton soft cheese | Gold |
| La Montanara Melkery | Crumbed Haloumi | Silver |
| La Montanara Melkery | Pork Cheese Grillers | Silver |
| La Montanara Melkery | Russian | Silver |
| La Montanara Melkery | Royal Ashton | Silver |
| La Montanara Melkery | Swellendammer | Silver |
| La Montanara Melkery | Barrel Aged Feta | Silver |
| Lancewood | Lancewood Balsamic & Onion Cottage Cheese | Double Gold |
| Lancewood | Lurpak Salted Modified Cultured Butter Spread with Rapeseed Oil | Double Gold |
| Lancewood | Castello Danablu 60+ High Fat Blue Mould Cheese | Double Gold |
| Lancewood | Lancewood Full Cream Chunky Plain Cottage Cheese | Gold |
| Lancewood | Lancewood Medium Fat Plain Cream Cheese | Gold |
| Lancewood | Lancewood Smoked Ham Cream Cheese | Gold |
| Lancewood | Lancewood Lactose Free Double Cream Smooth Strawberry & Apple Yoghurt 1kg | Gold |
| Lancewood | Lurpak Salted Butter Brick | Gold |
| Lancewood | Castello Camembert Cheese | Gold |
| Lancewood | Castello, Mature Cheddar Cheese | Gold |
| Lancewood | Castello, Creamy Havarti Cheese | Gold |
| Lancewood | Lancewood Sauce Delight, Mushroom Sauce. | Silver |
| Lancewood | Lancewood Creamed Smooth Plain Cottage Cheese | Silver |
| Lancewood | Lancewood Double Cream Orange & Mango Yoghurt | Silver |
| Lancewood | Lancewood Low Fat Toffee Drinking Yoghurt | Silver |
| Lancewood | Lancewood Sour Cream | Silver |
| Lelos Tasty Foods | Mango Atchar (Durban Hot flavour) | Gold |
| Lilys Fudge | Chilli Lime Fudge | Gold |
| Lilys Fudge | Seasalt, Maple Syrup and Pecan nut Fudge | Gold |
| Lions Creek Estate | Picual Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Double Gold |
| Lions Creek Estate | Frantoio Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Gold |
| Lions Creek Estate | Karoo Blend Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Silver |
| Magnificent Barista Boys | Spiced Apple Flavoured Rooibos Tea Capsules | Gold |
| Magnificent Barista Boys | Magnificent Barista Boys - The Original - Coffee Beans | Gold |
| Magnificent Barista Boys | Bourbon Vanilla Flavoured Rooibos Tea Capsules | Silver |
| Magnificent Barista Boys | Orange and Cinnamon Flavoured Rooibos Tea Capsules | Silver |
| Magnificent Barista Boys | Pure Rooibos tea capsules. | Silver |
| Mockford Pork | The Flying Pigs Beef Droëwors | Silver |
| Mockford Pork | The Flying Pigs Garlic Droëwors | Silver |
| Mockford Pork | The Flying Pigs Cabanossi | Silver |
| Mount Ceder Olives | Mount Ceder Smoked Kalamata Olives Whole | Gold |
| Mount Ceder Olives | Mount Ceder Kalamata Olives in Brine Whole | Silver |
| Mustard Deli | Smoked Apricot "Braaibroodjie" Mustard | Gold |
| Namaqua Coffee | Namaqua Coffee, House Blend, Coffee Beans | Gold |
| Nawty Water | Nawty Water, Lychee flavoured spirit cooler | Double Gold |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies | Guru Shiraz | Gold |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies | La Grande Vignerons Harmony Shiraz | Gold |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies | Sabrage Cap Classic Brut Rose | Gold |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies | Sabrage Cap Classic Brut | Gold |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies | Hoopenburg Chenin Blanc | Gold |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies | La Grande Vignerons Harmony Cabernet Sauvignon | Silver |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies | La Grande Vignerons Harmony Merlot | Silver |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies | Hoopenburg Sauvignon Blanc | Silver |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies | Hoopenburg Blanc De Blanc | Silver |
| Niel Joubert Wines | Niel Joubert Chenin Blanc | Double Gold |
| Niel Joubert Wines | Niel Joubert Sauvignon Blanc | Gold |
| Niel Joubert Wines | Niel Joubert Merlot | Silver |
| Niel Joubert Wines | Niel Joubert Pinotage | Silver |
| Oakhurst Olives | Oakhurst Kalamata Olives | Double Gold |
| Ohelo Hawaii | Ohelo's Mango Chutney-Hot with Hawaiian Chili Pepper | Double Gold |
| Ohelo Hawaii | Ohelo's Mango Chutney-Original | Gold |
| Ohelo Hawaii | Ohelo's Mango Chutney Spicy with Macadamia Nuts | Gold |
| Ohelo Hawaii | Ohelo's Passion Fruit Jelly with Cardamom and Ginger | Gold |
| Ohelo Hawaii | Ohelo's Guava Orange Jam with Tahitian Vanilla Beans | Gold |
| Ohelo Hawaii | Ohelo's Four Pepper Jelly | Gold |
| Ohelo Hawaii | Ohelo's Pineapple Coconut Jam with Lime Zest and Habanero | Silver |
| Puglia Cheese | Burrata | Double Gold |
| Puglia Cheese | Ricotta | Double Gold |
| Puglia Cheese | Labneh | Double Gold |
| Puglia Cheese | Mozzarella for Pizza FILONE | Double Gold |
| Puglia Cheese | Buratta Tartufo | Double Gold |
| Puglia Cheese | Bocconcini | Gold |
| Puglia Cheese | Fior di Latte | Gold |
| Puglia Cheese | Mascarpone | Gold |
| Puglia Cheese | Somerset | Gold |
| Puglia Cheese | Farmhouse Cheddar White over 12 months | Silver |
| Puglia Cheese | Manchego | Silver |
| Puglia Cheese | Fontina | Silver |
| Puritas | Puritas Spring Water | Silver |
| Razia's Pickle | Razia's Pickle Chilli Mayo | Gold |
| Razia's Pickle | Razia's Pickle Curry Leaves Sauce | Silver |
| Reverie Coffee Roasters | The Pope's Choice | Gold |
| Reverie Coffee Roasters | Rwenzori Silverback | Gold |
| Ribas Manufacturers | Top Sauces BBQ Sauce | Gold |
| Rio Largo Olive Estate | Rio Largo Premium | Silver |
| River Roastery | Shumba African Blend | Double Gold |
| River Roastery | Rio Signature Blend | Silver |
| RYO Coffee | RYO Blend Beans | Silver |
| Schoemanati | Schoemanati Granadilla Spirit cooler Granadilla Shooter | Double Gold |
| Schoemanati | Schoemanati Perske Mampoer Peach Spirit | Gold |
| Schoemanati | Schoemanati Luscious Litchi Gin Flavored Spirit Aperitif | Gold |
| Sout Afrika | Popcorn Sprinkle - Salt and Vinegar | Silver |
| Spath's Cold Meat | Salami | Double Gold |
| Spath's Cold Meat | Streaky Bacon | Gold |
| Spath's Cold Meat | Blackforest Ham | Gold |
| Spath's Cold Meat | Pastrami | Silver |
| Spek The bacon co | Bacon & cheese burger | Gold |
| Spek The bacon co | Streaky bacon | Gold |
| Spek The bacon co | Smokey cheese chipolata pork sausage | Gold |
| Spek The bacon co | Jalapeno and cheese griller | Silver |
| Spek The bacon co | Cheese Griller | Silver |
| Spiceologist | SPG Grinder (Salt, Pepper & Garlic Spice Blend) | Gold |
| Spiceologist | Bull Dust Beef Grinder | Silver |
| Squirrels Nuts | Squirrels Nuts Salted Caramel Cashews | Gold |
| Staller Estate Winery & Distillery | Estate Brandy | Gold |
| Sugar Baron Craft Distillery | Sugar Baron Coffee Rum Liqueur | Double Gold |
| Sugar Baron Craft Distillery | Tipo Tinto Superior White Rum | Double Gold |
| Sugar Baron Craft Distillery | Sugar Baron Barrel Aged Rum | Gold |
| Sugar Baron Craft Distillery | Sugar Baron White Rum | Silver |
| Sugar Baron Craft Distillery | Tipo Tinto Superior Dark Rum | Silver |
| Super Saucy | Chimichurri | Gold |
| Super Saucy | Sushi Mayo | Silver |
| Super Saucy | Vegan Basil Pesto | Silver |
| Tacoma Foods | SOS Fruit Snack | Silver |
| Taperians Bryggeri | Cerveza Limon | Silver |
| Terroir Coffee Roasters | Terroir coffee roasters: Soleil | Gold |
| Terroir Coffee Roasters | Terroir coffee roasters, Tribal Blend | Silver |
| Terroir Coffee Roasters | Terroir coffee roasters Altitude Blend | Silver |
| The Alternative Power | Cream Soda Float | Double Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Holiday - Passionfruit, Hibiscus & Raspberry | Double Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Raspberry & Marshmallow (Cutie Pie) | Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Grapefruit & Naartjie Vitamin C | Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Goji Berry & Starfruit Vitamin C | Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Pink Lemonade | Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Watermelon, Strawberry & Pear | Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Prickly Pear | Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Pineapple, Mango & Cherry | Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Tropical | Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Sour Worm | Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Jelly & Custard | Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Big Break - Coconut & Lime | Gold |
| The Alternative Power | Granadilla & Gooseberry (Granny Goose) | Silver |
| The Alternative Power | Champagne (10th Birthday) | Silver |
| The Alternative Power | Dragonfruit & Berries Sugar free | Silver |
| The Biltong Clan | Beef Biltong - Original | Silver |
| The Gourmet Greek | Camembert | Gold |
| The Gourmet Greek | Halloumi Plain | Gold |
| The Gourmet Greek | Double Cream Strained Yoghurt | Silver |
| THEONI S.A. | THEONI Natural Mineral Sparkling Water in a 1lt Glass Bottle | Double Gold |
| THEONI S.A. | THEONI Natural Mineral Water in a 1.5lt PET Bottle | Gold |
| THEONI S.A. | THEONI Natural Mineral Water in a 1lt Glass Bottle | Gold |
| THEONI S.A. | THEONI Natural Mineral Water in a 500ml Carton Box | Gold |
| Theressa Coffee Roastery | Kenya - Highlands AA - Washed - City Roast | Double Gold |
| Theressa Coffee Roastery | Decaf - Colombia Quindio Sugar Cane - Washed | Gold |
| Theressa Coffee Roastery | Brazil - Santos Peaberry Fine Cup Natural - Blonde (Iconic Range) - City Roast | Silver |
| Think Flavour | Pimp My Mayo Porcini Mushroom and Black Truffle | Gold |
| Think Flavour | Pimp My Braai Sweet and Sticky Korean Barbeque Dry seasoning to wet marinade | Gold |
| Think Flavour | Pimp My Braai Red Wine, Rosemary and Porcini Mushroom dry seasoning to wet marinade. | Silver |
| Think Flavour | Pimp My Party Cocktail Gummies - Pina Colada | Silver |
| Think Flavour | Pimp My Mayo Peri Peri and Spanish Lime | Silver |
| Think Flavour | Pimp My Party Cocktail Gummies Brandy and Cola | Silver |
| Thompsons Meats | Thompsons Selection Smoked Cheese Griller with Bacon | Gold |
| Thompsons Meats | Thompsons Selection Cheese Griller | Gold |
| Thompsons Meats | Thompsons Selection Chicken polony | Silver |
| Thompsons Meats | Thompsons Selection Smoked Chicken Viennas | Silver |
| Thompsons Meats | Thompsons Selection Chicken Frankfurters with Cheese | Silver |
| Thompsons Meats | Thompsons Selection Cheese Russian | Silver |
| Toady's Handcrafted | Toady's Handcrafted Vanilla Syrup | Silver |
| Toady's Handcrafted | Toady's Handcrafted Chocolate Syrup | Silver |
| Toady's Handcrafted | Toady's Handcrafted Lemon Syrup | Silver |
| Toady's Handcrafted | Toady's Handcrafted Iced tea Syrup | Silver |
| Tokara | Tokara Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Double Gold |
| Tokara | Tokara Frantoio Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Double Gold |
| Tokara | Tokara Mission Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Double Gold |
| Tokara | Tokara Multi-Varietal Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Gold |
| Tsitsikamma Crystal Spring Water | Tsitsikamma Spring Water | Gold |
| Turqle Brands | Honey & Rooibos Balsamic Vinegar | Gold |
| Turqle Brands | Smoked Habanero Hot Drops | Gold |
| Turqle Brands | Sosatie BBQ Sauce | Gold |
| Twizza | Twizza Indian Tonic Flavoured Carbonated Drink 1L | Gold |
| Twizza | Twizza Indian Tonic Flavoured Carbonated Drink 1L | Gold |
| Twizza | Twizza Cola Flavoured Carbonated Drink 1L | Gold |
| Twizza | Twizza Cola Flavoured Carbonated Soft Drink 1L | Gold |
| Twizza | Twizza Soda Water 1L | Gold |
| Twizza | Twizza Soda Water 1L | Gold |
| Twizza | Twizza Cola Flavoured Carbonated Soft Drink 3L | Gold |
| Twizza | Twizza Ginger Lime Carbonated Soft Drink 2L | Gold |
| Twizza | Twizza Strawberry Litchi Flavoured Carbonated Soft Drink 2L | Gold |
| Twizza | Twizza Cola 2L | Gold |
| Twizza | Twizza Ginger Beer Flavoured Soft Drink 2L | Gold |
| Twizza | Twizza Dry Lemon Flavoured Carbonated Drink 1L | Silver |
| Twizza | Twizza Dry Lemon Flavoured Drink 1L | Silver |
| Twizza | Twizza Lemonade Flavoured Carbonated Drink 1L | Silver |
| Twizza | Twizza Lemonade Flavoured Carbonated Drink 1L | Silver |
| Twizza | Twizza Strawberry Lime Flavoured Carbonated Energy Drink | Silver |
| Twizza | Twizza Vitamin C Naartjie Flavoured Carbonated Drink 500ml | Silver |
| Twizza | Twizza Vitamin C Naartjie Flavoured Carbonated Drink 2L | Silver |
| Twizza | Spar Pineapple Flavoured Carbonated Soft Drink 2L | Silver |
| Twizza | Spar Jelly Baby Flavoured Carbonated Soft Drink 2L | Silver |
| Twizza | Twizza Ginger Ale Flavoured Carbonated Drink | Silver |
| Twizza | Twizza Ginger Ale Flavoured Carbonated Drink | Silver |
| Two in a Bush | Two in a Bush Rooibos Cordial Citrus | Gold |
| Two in a Bush | Two in a Bush Rooibos Cordial Raspberry Infused | Gold |
| Tzamac Macadamia Oil | Tzamac macadamia oil | Double Gold |
| Vasco Da Gama Peri Peri | Bloody Pirate Hot Sauce | Silver |
| Vasco Da Gama Peri Peri | Hennies Bietjie Byt | Silver |
| VerGin SA | Vermont VerGin Bloom | Gold |
| VerGin SA | Vermont VerGin Limón | Gold |
| We Love Low Carb | We Love Low Carb Burger Buns | Gold |
| Westfalia Fruit Products | Westfalia Fruit Lemon Flavoured Avocado Oil | Gold |
| Westfalia Fruit Products | Westfalia Fruit Plain Avocado Oil | Silver |
| Westfalia Fruit Products | Westfalia Fruit Garlic Flavoured Avocado Oil | Silver |
| Wiesenhof Coffee Roastery | Italian Espresso | Silver |
| Wiesenhof Coffee Roastery | Big Five | Silver |