Zimbabwean food excellence is making headlines, with two local brands securing honours at the prestigious 2025 Aurora International Taste Challenge (AITC), held in South Africa recently.
Efoods’ Mr Sauce range emerged as a true ambassador for Zimbabwean quality, earning three gold awards and four silvers across seven competitive categories.
Dr Trouble, another premium brand known for its small-batch, sun-fermented sauces was awarded three silver medals for its Double Oak Smoked, Lemon Chilli and Troublenaise sauces.
This year’s event, in its seventh edition, saw nearly 500 products from around the world — drawing entries from Southern Africa to Germany, Uganda, Japan, Singapore, Mexico, UK and the United Arab Emirates, among others — evaluated by 17 certified judges, including celebrity chefs, sommeliers and industry experts.
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 such as tofu or potato crisps to allow flavours to shine. This consumer-centric approach reinforces the real-world quality of the winners.
The accolades place 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 signature Tomato Sauce.
Efoods marketing director Justin Evans said in a statement: “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 here. Trust in local brands that prioritise quality and consistency.”
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Also flying the Zimbabwean flag high was Dr Trouble, an affirmation of its craft and attention to detail. Dr Trouble Oak Smoked has previously won the Great Taste Award from the London Guild of Fine Foods 2021.
Added Evans: “This year’s results offer a timely reminder of the potential within Zimbabwe’s manufacturing sector, especially in the food space. With products such as Mr Sauce and Dr Trouble holding their own against the South African brands, which tend to dominate most FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) categories. The message is clear: Zimbabwe is not just keeping up — it’s standing out.”
He said the recognition of the brands will inspire consumer confidence and encourage retailers to showcase local brands. Businessdigest reached out to Dr Trouble on e-mail.
AITC — conducted in Stellenbosch, South Africa and carried out by renowned chefs, sommeliers and industry experts — is fast becoming one of the world’s most respected blind-tasting events that aims to recognise and award food and drink excellence.
Tasting is done blind, and the products are judged on aroma, flavour, mouth feel and overall impression. Each category has specific criteria to evaluate relevant category strengths.
