Following a highly successful debut in 2025, Agri-Expo is once again calling on local producers to showcase their finest preserved products on a national stage. Entries are now officially open for the second annual South African Preserve Championships, offering producers of all sizes the opportunity to gain recognition for their craftsmanship and quality.
Showcasing South Africa’s Finest Preserves
The Championships celebrate excellence in preserved fruit and vegetable products, with a wide range of categories including jams, marmalades, chutneys, pickles, pestos, olives and more. Open to producers across South Africa, the competition requires that all entries be commercially available at the time of submission—whether through retail outlets, farm stalls, markets or online platforms.
A Platform for Producers of All Sizes
Designed to be inclusive, the competition welcomes both small-scale artisans and established producers. By providing a national platform, the Championships aim to highlight the diversity and quality of South Africa’s preserving industry while creating opportunities for participants to expand their reach and connect with key stakeholders.
Expert Judging Ensures Quality and Credibility
A panel of 50 expert judges, led by chief judge Susina Jooste, will evaluate entries through a rigorous blind tasting process. This is followed by an independent audit to ensure fairness and credibility, reinforcing the competition’s reputation for integrity and excellence.
Building on a Record-Breaking Debut
“The response to the inaugural South African Preserve Championships in 2025 exceeded all expectations, with 456 entries from 66 producers,” says Breyton Milford, General Manager of Agri-Expo and organiser of the competition. “This not only reflects the growing interest in quality preserved products, but also highlights the value of a national platform that recognises excellence.”
Top honours in 2025 went to Compagniesdrift’s Makataan Chunks, which was named Preserve Product of the Year. In total, 70 products from 29 producers were awarded South African Champion status, alongside 11 category winners.
Celebrating Excellence and Innovation in Agri-Processing
Agri-Expo continues to champion excellence across multiple agri-processing sectors. “This competition honours exceptional products and encourages ongoing improvement and innovation in the preserving industry,” Milford adds.
The 2026 Championships are made possible through the support of Gold Partners Hollard, ClemenGold, and The Consol Shop.
Key Dates and How to Enter
Entries open on Monday, 4 May 2026, and close on Friday, 29 May 2026. The entry fee is R150 (excluding VAT) per product. Producers can enter by completing the online form at www.sapreservechamps.co.za
Judging will take place on Wednesday, 29 July, with product deliveries scheduled for 21, 22 or 23 July. Winners will be announced at the official awards ceremony on Thursday, 27 August 2026.
With entries now open, the South African Preserve Championships continues to grow as a premier platform for recognising excellence in preserved products. Producers across the country are encouraged to take part, gain national exposure, and celebrate the craftsmanship behind their creations. Whether a small artisan or an established brand, this competition offers a valuable opportunity to stand out, connect with the industry, and be part of a thriving community dedicated to quality and innovation.
For more information, interested participants can email [email protected] or follow @AgriExpo1 on social media using the hashtags #AgriExpo and #SAPreserveChamps.