Our Mission
At the New Mexico Cheese Guild, our mission is to promote and preserve the tradition of cheesemaking while fostering collaboration within the industry. We are committed to advancing the knowledge, skills, and appreciation of cheese and cheesemaking among producers, consumers, and enthusiasts alike.
Our Goals
Quality + Excellence: We strive for the highest standards of quality in cheese production, ensuring that every wheel, wedge, or curd crafted in New Mexico represents the pinnacle of taste and craftsmanship.
Networking + Collaboration: We aim to facilitate networking and collaboration opportunities among cheese industry stakeholders, strengthening bonds and knowledge-sharing within the community.
Advocacy + Protection: We aim to be a voice for the cheese industry, advocating for policies and regulations that support the interests of cheese-makers, promote the integrity of cheese products, and are in line with our mission and values.
Consumer Awareness: We educate current and future consumers about the value of high-quality cheese, its nutritional benefits, and its role in a diverse, healthy, and enjoyable culinary experience.
Cultural Education and Culinary Exploration: We acknowledge and respect the cultural and historical significance of cheese and cheesemaking, including the complex histories of oppression. We aim to continue the education and expand training programs to empower cheese-makers, farmers, chefs and cheese aficionados with the knowledge and skills necessary of this tradition to apply its entirety and push the boundaries of care, production, culinary use, and sustainability.
Individuality: In pursuit of our mission, we celebrate the rich tapestry of cheeses from around the world and the dedicated individuals who bring them to life. The Cheese Guild is committed to enriching lives through the appreciation of cheese, fostering a sense of camaraderie among cheese lovers, and leaving a legacy of sustainable and exceptional cheese craftsmanship for generations to come.
Sustainability: We are committed to sustainable and ethical cheese production practices, promoting environmentally friendly methods, and supporting the well-being of animals, farmers, and ecosystems. This includes — but is not limited to —advocating for sustainable and ethical practices in cheese production and distribution, as well as emphasizing environmental stewardship, animal welfare, and fair treatment of all participants in the cheese supply chain. We stand for purveyor-to-consumer relationships as a way of diminishing carbon emissions, supporting the reduction of food waste and the use of biodegradable packaging whenever possible.
Equity + Inclusion: We not only embrace diversity and inclusivity within the cheese community, we regularly assess, actively recruit, and prioritize cheese makers and enthusiasts from non-dominant groups into Guild membership and leadership positions, regardless of their background or experience level.
Feel like you have something you could contribute toward our Mission and Goals?