Story in Brief
The Annual Flavor of Georgia Food Product Contest, hosted and organized by the UGA Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development (CAED) since 2007, provides a unique opportunity for Georgia producers and food businesses to highlight their new or innovative food products. In 2020, there were 117 food products submitted for consideration in the 11 categories, with 30 finalists named in February. Judging consists of two rounds including buyers, distributors, and other food industry experts with the ability to provide product advice and leverage the contest for increases in sales and visibility. After initial review, the worldwide pandemic required a postponement of the final judging round. To meet the need for publicity and exposure for all of the entrants, CAED published the full-color directory, creating a resource for those seeking premium Georgia food products in online format. To enhance the benefits to all participants, CAED compiled the first-round judging scores and comments/advice, sending the electronic summary individually (for privacy) to all participants in April while awaiting news about scheduling the next step. A virtual final round of judging was held in October, naming a winner for each category and grand prize winner. Each winner will receive an award plate, press releases, and custom graphics indicating their champion status.
