Big Producer Award

First Light Farms

First Light Farms, based in New Zealand, is a fully integrated supply chain producing 20,000 F1 Wagyu cattle annually, with its primary market on the West Coast of the United States. Offering retail, restaurant, and Direct-to-Consumer channels, First Light has developed a meticulous value chain that ensures consistent, high-quality products. From selecting superior Wagyu genetics and implementing world-class, pasture-based animal production systems to processing excellence and innovative product development, the company maximizes the entire carcass while ensuring sustainable returns for its farmer suppliers.

The First Light Producer Group comprises over 150 New Zealand farming businesses, many of which are shareholders in the company. These farmers breed Wagyu cattle by crossing Wagyu genetics with New Zealand dairy cows, creating a sustainable market for non-replacement calves and fostering collaboration between the dairy and beef industries. Farmers are connected through regional hubs, on-farm field days, and a shared commitment to raising animals on grass for their entire lives using regenerative practices like rotational grazing. This community-driven model ensures continuous improvement, environmental stewardship, and a consistent supply of superbly finished grass-fed cattle. First Light’s dedication extends beyond the farm gate, optimizing the entire carcass to honour the care and resources invested in every animal.

The company has introduced a pet food and supplements range in the US market, utilizing offal and bones for freeze-dried dog food and natural, encapsulated supplements. Guided by the purpose, “To Lead by Example, Showing the World How to Produce Beautiful Meat, the Right Way,” First Light is driving the New Zealand meat industry toward value over volume. With a commitment to sustainable practices, innovative processing, and collaboration with premium processors, First Light continues to set a global standard for grass-fed Wagyu.

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ESG Award

Dawn Meats & Dunbia

For over 40 years, sustainability has been at the heart of Dawn Meats’ business, with a commitment to delivering quality meat products from sustainable sources to support rural communities, human health, and the environment. Central to this mission is the Plan Four Zero strategy, aligned with Science-Based Targets (SBTi) and UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This plan focuses on reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices across supply chains. Since approving its SBTs in 2019, Dawn Meats has achieved significant progress, including a 49% reduction in scope 1 and 2 emissions and a 15% reduction in scope 3 emissions intensity, alongside a 9.6% total emissions decrease.

The company has pledged to achieve Net Zero by 2050, backed by an initial €100m investment and a long-term commitment to science-based targets. Dawn Meats implements emissions reductions through procuring 100% renewable electricity, generating on-site renewable energy, upgrading refrigeration systems, and transitioning to lower-carbon thermal energy. Social responsibility is another pillar of the company, demonstrated through support for over 480 community initiatives, raising €1.1m, and contributing 8,300 volunteer hours from 2021 to 2023. In addition, Dawn Meats’ DE&I Plan fosters workplace inclusivity, while €11.5m has been invested in employee training. The Farm Green initiative further enhances sustainability by collaborating with industry groups and farmers to reduce agricultural emissions, including a UK supplier carbon footprinting project to accelerate emission reductions.

Corporate governance is led by the Sustainability Executive (SE), chaired by the CEO, ensuring sustainability goals are embedded across all departments. Supported by the Sustainability Team, the SE tracks progress, shares best practices, and maintains accountability through transparent reporting, including independent verification by the Carbon Trust. Dawn Meats publishes a Corporate Sustainability Report every 2 years and participates in key initiatives like the CDP Climate Change Questionnaire and Ecovadis. This holistic approach, combined with constant evaluation, ensures Dawn Meats remains a leader in sustainability within the food industry.

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Innovation Award

Kettyle Irish Foods - Salt Moss Dry-Ageing Process

Fermanagh based Kettyle Irish Foods, part of the ABP Food Group, took home the Innovation Award for its pioneering Salt Moss Dry Aging technique. Kettyle Irish Foods also secured a Gold Medal for their grass-fed fillet and a Silver Medal in the ribeye category.

Commenting on the success Maurice Kettyle, Head of Sales at Kettyle Irish Foods, said: “We’re delighted that our Salt Moss Aging process has been recognised on a global stage. The World Steak Challenge celebrates the finest beef from around the world, benchmarking products against international standards and showcasing the role of steak as part of a balanced diet. This award highlights the quality, sustainability, and innovation of our Salt Moss Dry Aged Beef.

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Small Producer Award

Carnicas Nay

Carnicas Nay, a family-owned ranching company located in the mountains of Galicia, is dedicated to raising one of the world’s finest meat breeds, the Galician Blonde. The challenging terrain and the distances between farms make breeding this exceptional cattle a demanding task. Each day, the team at Carnicas Nay ensures the animals have access to fresh pasture and pure drinking water sourced from underground springs. This meticulous care and commitment to animal welfare result in meat that achieves unparalleled excellence.

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