Ross McCallum, the renowned food technologist behind Food To Market

An Interview with Ross McCallum

Ross McCallum is an accomplished dairy technologist, Co-Founder of renowned dairy product company Kapiti Cheeses and also Founder of our very own Gourmet Guru. After a successful career developing some of New Zealand's favourite food brands, he has now settled into retirement with his partner in life and business Glenyss. In this interview Ross shares his inspiration for Gourmet Guru as well as some foodie insights on what's trending in the market right now.

What sparked the idea to create Gourmet Guru?

It was our response to the increasing consumer and retailer demand for low sugar options and to expand the options available in the Produce category.  

What is your favourite pairing partner for Gourmet Guru - Chocolate 

The obvious pair is strawberries but there are many others, ranging from easy things like swirling the sauce through whipped cream or mascarpone to adding low sugar chocolate into a wide range of recipes. 

What is your favourite memory from your experience building Food To Market and Gourmet Guru?

We have focussed on building relations with our customers, whether they be Produce Managers in stores or strawberry farmers with roadside outlets,  this has given us the opportunity to regularly travel throughout New Zealand. We have enjoyed meeting with them whilst having the opportunity to combine our travels with local sightseeing and experiences. 

What are some of your favourite trending food products you've enjoyed recently?

As founders of Kapiti Cheeses and ice cream which has become a flagship brand for Fonterra Brands I am pleased to see their ongoing innovation in both categories. Including the recent extension into Kapiti Yoghurt which very quickly became our favourite yoghurt, at last we have a local yoghurt that compares favourably with  the best premium yoghurt’s internationally.

I have been involved with the NZ Cheese awards for many years as an entrant then as a judge. Having enjoyed watching the evolution in the industry to having a wide range of varieties and brands, many comparing very favourably internationally. At the same time it has been great to see our cheese-makers creating unique products that reflect our New Zealand heritage and identity - long may this continue.