For the discerning British food lover, provenance is paramount. We look for labels that promise quality and care—free-range, grass-fed, pasture-raised. But in Sicily, one company, Centroform, is upholding a standard of animal welfare so deeply ingrained in tradition that it transcends any modern label, resulting in cheeses with unparalleled flavour and integrity.
A Pasture-Fed Way of Life
In the rolling hills surrounding Aidone, Sicily, Centroform's sheep live a life that many would consider idyllic. They roam vast, unspoiled landscapes in the Erei Mountains, far from industrial pollution, grazing freely on a rich diet of wild herbs, flowers, and native grasses. This is extensive, free-range farming as it was always meant to be, allowing the animals to socialise, explore, and live according to their natural instincts.
This high-welfare approach results in healthier, stress-free sheep. The direct consequence? Exceptionally high-quality milk, which boasts a complex, aromatic flavour profile that is a true expression of the Sicilian countryside—a taste that simply cannot be replicated by industrial methods.
Transhumance: A Rhythm in Harmony with Nature
Central to Centroform's philosophy is the ancient practice of transhumance—the seasonal migration of flocks between the lush lowland pastures of winter and the cooler grazing grounds of the high mountains in summer. This timeless rhythm is a masterclass in sustainable, regenerative farming.
Transhumance ensures the herds always have access to fresh, nutrient-rich forage, whilst allowing the pastures ample time to rest and recover. This prevents overgrazing, actively promotes biodiversity, and keeps one of Sicily’s most treasured agricultural traditions alive and well.
From Respect to Flavour
Ultimately, exceptional animal welfare isn't just an ethical imperative; it's the secret ingredient. At Centroform, this belief is lovingly crafted into cheeses that carry the flavour of the land. Whether it's the iconic Pecorino Siciliano DOP or a delicate Fresh Ricotta, each product is made from the milk of pasture-fed sheep using time-honoured artisanal methods.
The company brilliantly merges this heritage with modern environmental responsibility, utilising renewable energy, eco-friendly materials, and circular economy principles. It’s a perfect illustration of how caring for animals, respecting the environment, and preserving tradition can culminate in food that is, in the truest sense, good, clean, and fair.