Žemaitijos pienas 100 years celebration

This year, for the first time, "Džiugiadienis" is being held not only in Lithuania but also in export markets. This unique event is dedicated to special and professional cheese connoisseurs, inviting them to discover the legendary DŽIUGAS cheese, explore its diverse range, and learn about various ways to enjoy it. During the event, attendees focus on the quality of the cheese, compare different aging varieties, and uncover the many uses of DŽIUGAS. "Džiugiadienis" brings together industry professionals and other guests who deeply value high-quality products, offering a perfect opportunity to experience the unique hard cheese, DŽIUGAS.

This year, an exciting new product has been introduced—crispy, dried DŽIUGAS cheese balls. These cheese balls not only expand the existing range but also offer new taste experiences for consumers, available in four different flavors. Now, consumers can enjoy not only the traditional DŽIUGAS cheeses but also this innovative, crunchy addition, perfect for surprising friends with a unique snack or for exploring new culinary adventures by incorporating the cheese balls into dishes like soups and salads.

Pik-Nik cheese sticks are known not only for their great taste but also for setting various records. In November 2022, in Šilutė—the city where Pik-Nik cheese sticks are made—nearly 2,000 children, teachers, and parents gathered to attempt the record for the largest group eating Pik-Nik string cheese sticks. The event was officially documented by the Records Academy.

This year, the European Commission granted Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status to the cheese produced by AB "Žemaitijos." The PGI status is recognized and valued as a mark of quality, alongside other designations such as Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG).

After Angela Merkel won the elections for the third time, then-President of Lithuania Dalia Grybauskaitė congratulated her by presenting Džiugas cheese—a cheese that has won the hearts of not only Lithuanians but also people across the EU with its exceptional flavor.

After Angela Merkel won the elections for the third time, then-President of Lithuania Dalia Grybauskaitė congratulated her by presenting Džiugas cheese—a cheese that has won the hearts of not only Lithuanians but also people across the EU with its exceptional flavor.

"Žemaitijos Pienas" once again led the way by being the first in Lithuania to implement and introduce the world's most advanced milk purification technology.

This technology removes harmful bacteria from the milk while preserving its valuable nutrients.

This year has been fruitful for the company, with a 30% increase in milk processing.

However, the most significant event was the approval from the State Food and Veterinary Service of the Republic of Lithuania, allowing "Žemaitijos Pienas" to begin trading in European Union countries.

With the restoration of independence began a period of significant reforms. Freed from Russian control, the Lithuanian dairy market emerged and expanded.

The Plungė and Laukuva dairies joined the Telšiai cheese factory, leading to the establishment of AB "Žemaitijos Pienas."

As the population grew and agricultural operations strengthened, the factory operated around the clock, and its capacity became insufficient. Consequently, a new modern cheese factory was designed, featuring a full replacement production facility. At that time, the Telšiai cheese factory became the largest in the Baltic States.

In 1967, the dairy began producing the legendary RAMBYNO cheese, which over time became a favorite not only in Lithuania but also at international fairs in Denmark, Zagreb, Leipzig, Paris, and Vienna.

As the collective farms and state farms strengthened, the dairy's capacity needed to keep pace.

Therefore, it was decided to expand and renovate the facility. The building was bricked, and an administrative building was started next to it.

For the first time, the dairy temporarily halted its operations to prevent the retreating Germans from removing or damaging its equipment.

That year, "Telšių pieno perdirbimo bendrovė" became a member of the Dairy Center.

At that time, the small brick factory used basic equipment, and products were cooled with ice harvested from the lake during winter. Despite its size, the factory was bustling with activity, processing up to 5 million liters of milk annually.

An impressive sum of 7,500 litas was allocated for the start of the work.

A dairy was established in Telšiai, with the founding efforts spearheaded by the "Artojo" club.