Joseph Gallo Farms, which makes award-winning Joseph Gallo cheese, has recently won an award of another kind. The company was recognized by the California Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its recycling programs and policies.

Some of the practices the EPA recognized when bestowing this honor include the fact that the farm grows feed for their cattle without chemical fertilizers and they re-use nutrients and "nutrient water" in irrigation and fertilization. Gallo Farms also works closely with California wildlife agencies to ensure wildlife isn't disturbed by the limited chemicals used on the farm.

In 2009, Gallo Farms brought home a gold medal for Provolone cheese at the World Cheese Awards in the Canary Islands. It also won 10 gold medals at the Los Angeles International Dairy Competition and two silver medals at the California State Fair.

California dairy producers continue to look for ways to practice sustainability and conservation as they produce quality Real California dairy products. Be sure to look for the Real California Milk and Real California Cheese seals at your local store.