A New England organization that enhances production, processing, and marketing of sustainable, nutritious, humanely-raised, delicious meat selects Daniele Inc. as the New England Meat Plant Processor of the Year.
The award recognizes Daniele's owners, the Dukcevich family, and the multigenerational history of crafting artisanal meat products. It also applauded Davide Dukcevich's public support of local farmers. Over the past two years, Daniele created a local line of charcuterie using pork raised on New England farms. Students from the Rhode Island School of Design designed the New England-inspired label. In addition, chefs from Providence-based Johnson and Wales University helped develop recipes.
The new Daniele local line is already receiving national acclaim, this year winning two national Good Food Awards.
In selecting Daniele to receive the Meat Plant Processor of the Year award, the New England Meat Conference said it was particularly impressed by Daniele's ability to bring together those involved in meat production from field to table. The initiative reflects the New England Conference's goal of including farmers, processors, markets, chefs and members of the food community.
"The New England Meat Conference provides an amazing opportunity for those of us in the industry to share best practices, learn new skills and perfect our craft," said Davide Dukcevich, whose family owns Daniele Foods. "It is an honor for our family to be recognized with this award. We look forward to continuing to work with food industry leaders throughout the New England region."
The New England Meat Conference also works to provide educational programs and the sharing of best practices from meat producers, processors, and consumers. In giving Daniele the Meat Processor of the Year award, the New England Conference also recognized Daniele's Food Safety Director Michael DeCesare. DeCesare, conducted a workshop on the microbiology of the curing process at this year's Conference, and he continues to provide technical assistance to the Conference members.
The award was presented at this year's New England Meat Conference held mid March in Concord, New Hampshire.