Turlock dairies are making some of the best cheese products in the world — and they’ve got the awards to prove it. 

Last week, Dairy Farmers of America, a national dairy cooperative representing the city’s dairies, took home 19 awards at the 2013 World Dairy Expo Championship held in Wisconsin.

The national contest showcased 72 different dairy product categories, from cheese to yogurt,  making it the only national judging contest in North America that includes all dairy products. This year marked the 11th year of the contest, and a record 820 dairy product entries.

Turlock dairies swept the cheese divisions with nearly perfect scores, taking first, second and third for provolone cheeses and both the gold and silver in the mozzarella divisions.

Mark Korsmeyer, executive vice president of the DFA, stated that the secret to the success of DFA farms is the individual attention and quality given to all products. 

“Exceptional products at DFA begin with a commitment to quality on our members’ farms that continues through the entire production chain,” said Korsmeyer.  “This recognition reinforces that quality products start with quality people striving to do their best every day.”

The Turlock winners will now able to promote and market their products as “the best of the best” in North America. First-place winners will be auctioned off on Oct. 1 at the World Dairy Expo, and proceeds will be used to fund scholarships for students pursuing careers in the dairy industry.