Online Reporter
Sunday News Correspondent
Zimbabwean food excellence is making headlines, with two local brands securing honours at the prestigious 2025 Aurora International Taste Challenge, held in South Africa recently.
This year’s event — the seventh edition — saw nearly 500 products from around the world evaluated by 17 certified judges, including celebrity chefs, sommeliers, and industry experts.
The Aurora International Taste Challenge is fast becoming one of the world’s most respected blind-tasting events, with entries in 2025 arriving from across the globe — extending from Southern Africa to include Germany, Uganda, Japan, Singapore, Mexico, UK and the UAE, among others.
The judges brought decades of food-tasting experience to the fore and placed focus on tasting in the same context as a consumer would typically enjoy the products.
For example, sauces were tested with neutral bases like tofu or potato crisps to allow flavours to shine.
This consumer-centric approach reinforces the real-world quality of the winners.
Among the standout performances, Efoods’ Mr Sauce range emerged as a true ambassador for Zimbabwean quality, earning three gold awards and four silvers across seven competitive categories.
This places the Harare-based manufacturer as one of the top-performing condiment producers in the competition.
The Mr Sauce product line — a staple in many Zimbabwean homes — won gold for its BBQ Sauce, Tangy Mayo (with egg), and Creamy Greek Dressing, while also securing silver for its Creamy Vegan Mayo, Miri Piri Hot Sauce, X Hot Miri Piri, as well as its Tomato Sauce.
“These awards are more than just medals — they are proof that local can be exceptional. At Efoods, we believe Zimbabwean products are as good, if not better than international ones. Don’t underestimate what’s made in Zimbabwe,” said Justin Evans, Marketing Director of Efoods.
Also flying the Zimbabwean flag high was Dr Trouble, a premium brand known for its small-batch, sun-fermented sauces. The brand was awarded three silver medals for its Double Oak Smoked, Lemon Chilli, and Troublenaise sauces — an affirmation of its craft and attention to detail.
This year’s results offer a timely reminder of the potential within Zimbabwe’s manufacturing sector, especially in the food space. With products like Mr Sauce and Dr Trouble holding their own against the South African brands, which tend to dominate most FMCG categories. The message is clear: Zimbabwe is not just keeping up — it’s standing out!
Industry experts hope that this recognition inspires consumer confidence and encourage retailers to showcase local brands.
