ARLINGTON, VA – The U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) today announced the winners of its prestigious Excellence in Exports (ExEx) Awards, which honor individuals and member companies driving the U.S. dairy export industry forward.

Actus Nutrition was honored with the Excellence in Exports Award, while David Ahlem, president & CEO of Hilmar Cheese Company, received the Excellence in Innovation Award.

"These award recipients exemplify the innovation, leadership, and dedication that drive the success of U.S. dairy in international markets," said USDEC President and CEO Krysta Harden. "Their contributions have significantly strengthened America's position as a global dairy leader while creating opportunities for the entire U.S. dairy industry." 

Actus Nutrition (formerly Milk Specialties Global) was recognized for its groundbreaking work introducing U.S.-produced caseins and caseinates into the global market. As a result. Actus Nutrition has transformed a market previously dominated by European and Oceanian producers. In 2024, Actus Nutrition's casein and caseinates from fresh curd reached multiple international markets, generating over $40 million in sales and more than 5,000 metric tons in exports.

"This award recognizes our commitment to establishing the U.S. as a competitive source for high-quality dairy ingredients globally," said Jing Hagert, senior vice president of sales, human nutrition ingredients at Actus Nutrition. "By introducing U.S.-produced caseins and caseinates to the global market, we're not only expanding our business but also strengthening America's dairy export portfolio." 

Actus Nutrition has experienced remarkable international growth, exporting dairy ingredients to 45 different countries across six continents, with exports accounting for approximately one quarter of the company's $1.5 billion in annual revenue. 

David Ahlem was honored for his visionary leadership in developing innovative solutions for U.S. dairy exports. Under his direction, Hilmar Cheese Company co-invested in labs and an innovation center in China in 2022, significantly enhancing the company's global presence in supplying high-protein whey and lactose. This initiative has enabled local partners to leverage Hilmar Cheese Company’s technical expertise to develop products tailored to local tastes. 

In 2024, Ahlem led the introduction of Hilmar Connect Global, a digital platform that enables customers to secure forward allocations based on CME Index and choose flexible product mixes. This innovation helps customers better manage their needs while reducing the adverse effects of price volatility on exports. 

Ahlem has also demonstrated exceptional industry leadership, serving as the 2022 IDFA Chair of the Executive Council and playing a crucial role in developing sustainability goals that resonate with brands worldwide. During the pandemic, he led collaboration with the Port of Los Angeles and CMA CGM to form a Dairy Exports Working Group to address supply chain issues hampering U.S. dairy exports. 

"Innovation is essential for maintaining U.S. dairy's competitive edge in global markets," said Ahlem. "I'm honored to receive this recognition and remain committed to advancing solutions that address our customers' needs while strengthening the position of U.S. dairy exports worldwide." 

Left to right, Jim and Carol Ahlem of Hilmar Cheese Company, who accepted the Excellence in Innovation Award on behalf of David Ahlem, Krysta Harden, president and CEO of the U.S. Dairy Export Council, and Jing Hagert, Jamie Miller and Enrique Pedroza of Actus Nutrition, recipient of the Excellence in Exports Award.