The União de Cooperativas Agrícolas de Lacticínios de São Jorge, known as UNIQUEIJO, represents one of Portugal's most prestigious dairy cooperatives, established in 1986 in the parish of Velas on São Jorge Island in the Azores. This union brought together six traditional dairy cooperatives from the island, creating a unified organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the centuries-old cheesemaking traditions of São Jorge.
The cooperative is renowned for producing the famous Queijo São Jorge DOP, a protected designation of origin cheese that has been crafted on the island since the 15th century. This semi-hard to hard cheese is made exclusively from whole cow's milk using traditional Portuguese methods passed down through generations. The cooperative's commitment to authenticity and quality is validated by the Chamber of Tasters of the Confraria do Queijo São Jorge, ensuring each cheese meets the strict standards required for DOP certification.
Beyond the flagship São Jorge cheese, UNIQUEIJO produces several other traditional varieties including Queijo Lourais, Queijo Topo, and Queijo Beira. Located in the Beira area north of Velas, the cooperative operates what is considered one of Portugal's oldest cheese factories, with roots tracing back to 1927. The organization plays a crucial role in maintaining the agricultural heritage of the Azores while supporting local dairy farmers and preserving traditional production methods that define the unique character of São Jorge's dairy products.
In the volcanic landscapes of the Azores, centuries-old culinary traditions harness the Earth's natural heat to create one of Portugal's most extraordinary dishes—the legendary Cozido das Furnas.
Volcanic islands with a cuisine unlike anywhere else in Portugal. Geothermal cooking, island cheese, and Atlantic seafood.