The centuries-old tradition of Minas Artisanal Cheese has been officially recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Announced during a ceremony in Asunción, Paraguay, this designation celebrates the “Ways of Making Minas Artisanal Cheese” and highlights the role of family farming in preserving cultural practices and values in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais.
A legacy of flavor and history
The origins of Minas Artisanal Cheese date back to Brazil’s gold rush in the former Captaincy of Minas Gerais. Made with raw milk, without pasteurization, and using “pingo” [“drop”]—a natural yeast derived from the production process itself—this cheese embodies ancestral techniques passed down through generations.
Maturation, which lasts between 14 and 22 days depending on the region, is another essential aspect of the process. This method, historically crucial for ensuring the product’s durability during transportation by mules, continues to distinguish Minas Artisanal Cheese. Today, it is produced in iconic regions like Serro, Serra da Canastra, and Campo das Vertentes, each bringing its unique identity to the table.
CNA’s perspective and international opportunities
The Brazilian Confederation of Agriculture and Livestock (CNA) celebrated the designation, emphasizing the cheese’s regionality and the Brazilian dairy producers’ commitment. According to Ronei Volpi, President of CNA’s National Dairy Farming Commission, this milestone is “unprecedented and well-deserved” and opens the door to new international markets.
“This is an opportunity to expand into less traditional markets, such as Asia and Latin America. This pioneering recognition certainly will also help us promote other Brazilian dairy products internationally, like doce de leite [milk jam] and UHT milk,” Volpi stated.
Guilherme Dias, CNA’s technical advisor, underscored the economic and cultural significance of artisanal cheese production, particularly for small-scale farms. “This recognition results from organized production but, above all, from the devotion of rural producers, who work tirelessly every day to provide high-quality, healthy food,” Dias said.
The first Brazilian food on UNESCO’s List
With this designation, Minas Artisanal Cheese becomes the first Brazilian food to join UNESCO’s Cultural Heritage List. Brazil now boasts six cultural items on this prestigious list, reinforcing the importance of preserving traditions and strengthening rural production in harmony with the nation’s history and culture.