JemsThe final conference of the MILKYWAY Pannonian Superfood project, one of the most significant cross-border initiatives aimed at advancing artisan cheese production in Serbia and Croatia, was held at the Economic Center of Osijek Baranja County. The project, valued at EUR 448,600 and financed through the Interreg Croatia Serbia Programme, lasted 18 months and was implemented by the Chamber of Commerce of Vojvodina and Osijek Baranja County.
Representatives of the partner institutions emphasized that MILKYWAY has contributed to the professionalization of small dairy producers, strengthened rural communities, and modernized technological processes, serving as a model of successful cooperation between the two regions. Throughout the project, special attention was given to supporting producers who preserve local tradition and identity and whose products are recognized for their authenticity and quality.
During the project, two associations of artisan cheese producers were established, one in Vojvodina and one in Osijek Baranja County. These associations developed strong and lasting cooperation and will continue working together beyond the end of the project. Over the 18 month period, they received intensive expert support, numerous trainings, and access to modern technology, which significantly improved production quality and increased their market potential.
Experts engaged in the project continuously visited producers, analyzed their technological processes, and provided guidance on improving hygiene, quality standards, technological procedures, and overall production organization. This hands-on approach enabled producers to align their methods with contemporary market requirements and strengthen their capacities.
A key achievement of the project was the acquisition of equipment that remains available to the associations and institutions. Producers now have access to modern milk processing equipment, a fully equipped cheese aging facility, and a lyophilizer. The introduction of freeze drying technology at this scale for small producers in the region proved to be a highly valuable innovation, enabling the creation of long-lasting products with preserved flavour and nutritional value.
One of the most important project activities was the study visit to Italy, where participants observed the production of Parmigiano Reggiano. The visit demonstrated how consistent quality control, protection of geographic origin, strong producer associations, and clear institutional support contribute to building globally recognised products. This experience encouraged producers to enhance their processes and work towards a recognizable regional brand.
During the final conference, the new products created by members of both associations were presented. Over the course of the project, participants developed and tested ten new products combining traditional recipes with modern technology. Among them, yogurt with freeze dried blueberries and polenta with freeze dried goat cheese stood out as particularly promising due to their authentic flavour, stability, and innovative character.
The conference also featured the presentation of the professional handbook “Production and Maturation of Hard Cheeses, Cheeses with Spices and Mold Ripened Cheeses,” authored by Prof. Samir Kalit, PhD, and Assoc. Prof. Milna Tudor Kalit, PhD. The publication remains an important educational resource for all producers seeking to improve the quality of their products and introduce new technologies.
Although the MILKYWAY project is formally concluding, its results will have long-term impact. Modern equipment, improved knowledge, innovative products, strengthened producer associations, and stable cooperation between Serbia and Croatia remain as permanent value. In December, the associations from Vojvodina and Osijek Baranja County will hold a final working meeting to define the plan for future cooperation, including new product development, further trainings, and joint efforts to strengthen market presence at regional and international levels.
