SHILOH – A Shiloh-based butcher shop won several awards, including “best of show” earlier this week at a statewide competition.
The family-owned and operated Newswanger Meats, 1585 State Route 603 West, competed in the Ohio Association of Meat Processors (OAMP), Product Competition Friday, Feb. 23 and Saturday, Feb. 24 at the 78th annual State Convention at the Columbus Airport.
“We are excited to announce that we have successfully competed in the Ohio Association of Meat Processors, Meat Competition,” said manager and part-owner Galen Newswanger.
Newswanger Meats’ “Beef Steamship,” a marinated roast tied with string and rubbed with spices, won grand champion in the Specialty class and was later named the “Best of Show.”
“The judges group all the grand champions of all classes and evaluate them to see which product deserves to be recognized above all the other grand champion products,” Newswanger said.
The shop’s three hams (bone-in ham, boneless ham, semi-boneless ham), ring bologna, smoked turkey and pepper loaf also won grand champion in their respective classes. Its “Hillbilly jerky” and Porkroll were named Reserve Champions in their classes.
Newswanger Meats first competed in 2010 and has since won numerous awards. All but the semi-boneless ham award were repeat winners. It was also the first time the shop’s ring bologna earned first place.
“They get a panel of judges, and they check internal and external appearances, flavor and texture is a big thing,” Newswanger said. “They evaluate many aspects.
“We started going to the association for new ideas and interaction with the other meat processors that are there, which is the biggest benefit of being a member.”
He added the competition points out ways to improve the products and connects the business to food scientists.
Newswanger Meats dealt with a massive recall October. When the problem was discovered, it was quickly addressed, and the shop reopened within a week.
“We are back to business and very busy. I’ve been very thankful for my customers who supported us through it,” Newswanger said.
