Papa Mountain secured the top spot in the 2026 Flavor of Georgia food product competition for its product, Garlic and Herb Bread Rolls, rising to the top of 180 products entered in 12 categories.
Flavor of Georgia is the state’s proving ground for small, upstart food companies as well as established products looking for recognition or new markets. More than 2,410 products have been entered into the contest since 2007.
“What started nine years ago in Ziploc bags and farmers markets has turned into an award-winning brand,” said Solomon Cohen, Papa Mountain founder and owner. “As a single father of three boys, a full-time super dad, I put my life, blood and soul into this company. We have a great product, and we are just getting started.”
Growing food entrepreneurship through public-private partnership
A contest for established or market-ready foods and beverages made in the state, Flavor of Georgia is hosted by the department of food science and technology at the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
“One of the most exciting aspects of this event is partnering with food business entrepreneurs who are turning bold ideas into market-ready products,” said Faith Critzer, professor and interim head of the department. “Supporting their journey through this event and other outreach opportunities really demonstrates the great things that can happen through strong public-private partnerships.”
A CAES Signature Event, Flavor of Georgia is supported by presenting sponsor Massey Ferguson as well as the Georgia Department of Agriculture and Georgia Grown, the CAES Alumni Association, Farm Credit Associations of Georgia, Corteva Agriscience, the Georgia Agribusiness Council and The Dairy Alliance.
The 2026 category winners
This year’s category winners were among 30 finalists selected during the first round of judging at the UGA Food Product Innovation and Commercialization Center last month.
“UGA is proud to help Georgia food businesses grow, innovate and succeed, and the Flavor of Georgia contest is a delicious opportunity to show the state what you’ve got,” said FoodPIC Director James Gratzek.
Judges for the contest’s final round included food product experts, community members, local businesses and political leaders. Entries were evaluated by category based on Georgia connection, commercial appeal, taste, innovation and market potential. Finalists provided samples to judges while pitching their products in a three-minute presentation.
Winners are listed by product name, company and city within the 12 competition categories.
- Baked Goods: Garlic and Herb Bread Rolls by Papa Mountain in Augusta
- Barbecue Sauces and Seasonings: Crunchy Peanut Seasoning by PODI Life in Cumming
- Beverages: Caribbean Hibiscus by Caribbean Hibiscus in Decatur
- Cakes: Sweet Potato Cheesecake by Dorothy’s Desserts in Atlanta
- Condiments and Sauces: Summertime Blues by Atlanta Burns in Pine Lake
- Confections: The Complete Georgia Collection by Xocolatl Chocolate in Atlanta
- Dairy Products: Honey Peach Pecan Cream Cheese by Now Schmear This! in Austell
- Honey, Syrups, Jams and Jellies: Summer Berries and Wine Spread by Georgia Jams in Williamson
- Meats and Seafood: Piecasso: Chicken, Bacon, and Spinach Pie by Pouch Pies in Norcross
- Miscellaneous: Stone-Ground Grits by Artisan Milling Co. in Rome
- Pickled Vegetables, Relish and Salsas: The Green Tomatoes by [PICKLES] Evergreen and Market in Tucker
- Snack Foods: Sugar Fried Pecans by Ocmulgee Orchards in Hawkinsville
A People’s Choice Award, chosen by event attendees, went to Ocmulgee Orchards for Sugar Fried Pecans.
Each entry in the Flavor of Georgia contest is featured in the digital product directory, including a professional photograph and brief overview, which is seen by leading food industry buyers and media outlets. The finalists received a personalized news release, use of the Flavor of Georgia finalist logo on their label and promotional materials, and the opportunity to present their product to a panel of food industry experts at the final judging event. Finalists also received a one-year Georgia Grown membership, courtesy of the Georgia Department of Agriculture.
An inspirational show of talent and passion
In his remarks at Savor the State: A Flavor of Georgia Tasting Experience, CAES Dean and Director Nick T. Place shared how inspiring it was to see so many Georgia food entrepreneurs sharing their talent and passion.
“At the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, we are committed to fostering innovation and supporting the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our state’s food industry,” Place said. “Our aim is to strengthen local businesses, boost Georgia’s economy and highlight the incredible potential of homegrown ideas and ingredients.”
To learn more about the contest, visit flavorofgeorgia.caes.uga.edu.