Ingredients and foodservice

Although Leprino Foods is synonymous with cheese — the company says it is the largest mozzarella maker in the world — dairy ingredients like sweet whey, whey protein concentrates and lactose are a major segment of the business.

International markets actually led its whey business. “Demand for whey products matured for us faster overseas than it did in the United States,” says Jensen.
Now, the international markets are primed to propel Leprino Foods’ cheese business as well as the overseas foodservice sector booms.

“There appears to be tremendous opportunity for foodservice expansion in many international markets,” says Jensen. “When you consider the Asia-Pacific market, it’s reminiscent of the U.S. food industry in the early ’70s, particularly in the pizza category. We all know the growth the industry experienced in the United States over the last 40 years. I think it’s fair to expect significantly increasing international sales as many developing markets see a desire for Western-style foods.”

“With the numerous tariff and regulatory requirements abroad, USDEC has been a tremendous partner in helping us gain access and navigate the many varying international markets,” says Burke. “They also provide those in the industry with a wealth of information on various global markets in regard to trends and market outlets — all of which is critical as we work to provide superior service to our customers.”

In the end, it comes back to service. Says Burke, “We want our customers to succeed and we work hard to make sure they do.”

Past Exporters of the Year

•2010 United Dairymen of Arizona
•2009 Hilmar Cheese Co.
•2008 Schreiber Foods
•2007 Darigold
•2006 Davisco Foods