Colombia sets world record for cheese tasting in a celebration of tradition and flavour
A Colombian dairy company has set a new world record for the largest cheese tasting event, with more than 1,100 people taking part in the town of Sopó.
Guinness World Records confirmed the record after 1,180 participants gathered on May 25 to sample three varieties of cheese produced by Alpina Productos Alimenticios, one of the country’s leading food brands.
The event was part of the company’s 80th anniversary celebrations and aimed to showcase its long-standing tradition in the dairy industry.
In order to qualify, participants were required to taste all three cheeses: Gruyere, mature Sopó cheese, and Argovia. Each cheese was chosen to represent a different part of Alpina’s history and its connection to Colombian and European dairy traditions.
The previous record had been set in Australia in 2019, with exactly 1,000 participants.
Alpina’s event surpassed that number, even after 11 people were disqualified under Guinness World Records rules. The attempt was overseen by an official adjudicator, who confirmed that all guidelines and health standards had been met.
Organisers said the tasting brought together families, cheese experts and members of the local community in a celebration of tradition and teamwork. Over 30 Alpina staff members helped coordinate the event.
Alpina says the record is not only a tribute to its roots in Sopó but also a symbol of how food can connect people and promote cultural pride.
The company added that the milestone reflects its broader mission to support Colombia’s economic, social and nutritional development.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
