#USA #Napa #Real California Milk #Dairy Innovation #Smearcase

Smearcase's Innovative Frozen Cottage Cheese Disrupts the Indulgence Aisle

In an exciting development for the dairy industry, Smearcase has emerged as the grand prize winner at the 2025 Real California Milk (RCM) Excelerator Final Pitch Event. This competition, organized by the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) and VentureFuel, aims to foster innovation in dairy products using sustainably produced California milk. On December 11th, during a live pitch event held in Napa, California, Smearcase not only showcased its impressive product but also secured a $100,000 award to support its growth.

A Leap Toward Dairy Innovation

Smearcase was selected as a finalist in 2024 for its unique frozen cottage cheese-based ice cream, notable for being infused with collagen. Designed as a healthier alternative in the ice cream market, Smearcase exceeds expectations with approximately 40 grams of protein per pint while avoiding artificial gums or sweeteners. This innovative approach targets health-conscious consumers, and the brand was founded by Joe Rotondo and Drew DiSpirito, who identified a gap in the market while training for a marathon.

Leveraging the resources provided through the RCM Excelerator, Smearcase has substantially increased its production capabilities using Real California Milk. The recognition as this year's grand prize winner was a result of the company's impressive sales growth and commitment to quality. Over the past year, their products have made their way into Whole Foods and are set to launch in Sprouts markets in the first quarter of 2026.

Marketing Support to Fuel Growth

The $100,000 prize will enable Smearcase to enhance its marketing initiatives, including on-pack promotions, digital coupons, in-store signage, and product sampling—all designed to boost brand awareness and expand retail presence. Joe Rotondo, co-founder of Smearcase, expressed gratitude towards the CMAB, highlighting how the partnership has significantly elevated their business trajectory. "The California Milk Advisory Board has taken our business to a whole new level," Rotondo stated, emphasizing the doors that have opened for them through this collaboration.

The Real California Milk Excelerator

The RCM Excelerator was created seven years ago to promote innovative dairy brands and facilitate their growth in a competitive market. This program offers product development expertise, mentorship, and industry exposure, ensuring that pioneering dairy startups like Smearcase have the tools they need to thrive.

Bob Carroll, CEO of the CMAB, praised Smearcase's innovative methods, noting that their frozen cottage cheese product is revolutionizing the concept of indulgence. “Innovation pushes our industry forward, and Smearcase is a clear example of what happens when bold thinking meets real dairy,” he said.

In addition to Smearcase's victory, the event also revealed the four finalists for the 2026 competition. They included:

• - Joseph Farms' String Cheese: A lactose-free cheese snack with 7 grams of protein per stick.
• - Mavens Creamery: Featuring unique ice cream flavors inspired by Asian cuisine, such as Thai Tea and Black Sesame.
• - Pioneer Pastures: Offering ultra-filtered A2 whole milks for superior nutrition and easier digestion.
• - Sweet Craft Dessert Cups: Presenting clean-label, Italian-inspired desserts.

This year’s participants exemplified the creativity and dynamism inherent in California’s dairy sector, highlighting the potential of local dairy to adapt and innovate in response to market demands.

California's Dairy Future

California remains the leading state in dairy production in the United States, with a strong commitment from local farmers to sustainability. The success of Smearcase and its fellow competitors illustrates the rich opportunities available to those who dare to innovate within the dairy realm.

As they prepare for future endeavors, Smearcase's journey emphasizes the importance of collaboration and support within the agricultural community, reinforcing that the future of dairy can be both delicious and health-conscious. With the backing of the CMAB, Smearcase is poised to redefine indulgence in the frozen food aisle, serving as an inspiration for future dairy innovations.

For updates and to explore more about Smearcase and other dairy innovations, follow Real California Milk on social media.