Meat & Poultry Ontario Announces Winners of Ontario’s Ultimate Burger Competition

Meat & Poultry Ontario (MPO) revealed the champions of its Ontario’s Ultimate Burger Competition, on Saturday, October 25, at the bi-annual Meating Place Conference in Blue Mountain. This year’s contest gathered bold new burger creations from across the province, and entries were judged by a panel of culinary experts, which delivered some mouth-watering results.

This year’s “Ultimate Burger” title was awarded to Denninger’s Ltd. for their outstanding Lamb Burger, which achieved the highest overall score among all entries, a true testament to their exceptional inventive profile and expert execution.

“For us, this competition is about more than flavour - it’s a celebration of innovation, craftsmanship, and the pride Ontario producers take in every cut,” said Executive Director, Franco Naccarato. “It captures the imaginative spirit thriving across our province’s meat and poultry industry.”

The judging criteria were based on taste, aroma, texture, consumer experience, and visual appeal. The top entry in each category was crowned the “Ultimate Burger.”

Craftsmanship in Every Category:
​

• Ontario’s Ultimate Burger:  Recognized as the best of the best, this title is awarded to the burger that achieved the highest overall score across all categories. Selected by the judges for its exceptional flavour, texture, and presentation, it represents the ultimate expression of Ontario’s craftsmanship, creativity, and commitment to quality.

 

• Ultimate Pork Burger: Highlighted the creativity of crafting a burger with pork as the star, with competitors showcasing memorable flavours and textures.

 

• Ultimate Beef Burger: Showcased the versatility and richness of beef, as competitors delivered creative interpretations and distinctive flavour profiles that elevated this classic favourite.

 

•  Ultimate Poultry Burger: Demonstrated the versatility of Ontario poultry, with competitors delivering balanced, flavourful, and expertly crafted burgers.

 

• Ultimate Lamb Burger: Celebrated a premium protein, highlighting bold flavours and unique combinations that showcased the richness of Ontario lamb.

 

• Ultimate Anything Goes: Allowed complete creative freedom, with competitors pushing boundaries to craft original and innovative burgers.

 

• People’s Choice Award: Determined by votes from attendees at the reception sponsored by Handtmann, where guests sampled sliders and selected their favourite based on taste and creativity.

Competition proudly supported by The Erb Group and Fanshawe College.