About International Food Contest

Carrying forward the history of combining tradition with renewal, the International Food Contest (IDF) was established in 2014. Aiming to enhance quality awareness among professionals, the IFC became a platform for Danish and international dairy products to gather. Under its umbrella, the International Dairy Contest (IDC) evaluates and celebrates the best of the best in the industry.

The IFC is among the largest events of its kind, with approximately 1,000 dairy products exhibited and assessed each year. This includes several international entries, as well as a special selection of gourmet dairy items. The event brings together professionals who share a passion for quality, enthusiasm for innovation, and pride in their craft.

Producers showcase their products for grading by their peers, with hopes of earning one of the many awards. Assessments are conducted by trade professionals, and in 2024, more than 150 judges from around the world participated. By bringing the industry together, the IFC not only celebrates the best of dairy today but also provides valuable inspiration for quality improvement and product development, shaping the future of the dairy industry.

The Danish dairy industry has a proud and long-standing tradition of assessing and exhibiting products, a practice that dates back to the early 1900s. Butter was the first product to undergo assessment, and it was an important Danish dairy export even then, competing with international versions in foreign markets.

Over the next hundred years, the range of products subjected to assessment expanded. Cheese joined the line in the 1950s, followed by liquid milk and fermented dairy products in the 1970s. By 2022, even plant-based drinks were welcomed into the fold of exhibition and the voluntary assessment of quality.

The first nationwide dairy exhibition took place in 1920. Then, as now, its purpose was to instil a sense of pride and inspire innovation within the dairy industry. The exhibition was a resounding success. Although the name of the fair has changed and its scope has broadened to include other food products, the core philosophy of celebrating excellence and fostering development remains unchanged.