The Specialty Food Association (SFA) has opened submissions to the Sofi Awards, a awards program created to “honor the best in specialty food,” per a release.
Available only to product-qualified members of the SFA, the 2024 Sofi Awards include some notable changes, implemented by SFA based on member feedback, including the following:
- Award levels have been simplified. There will be just one winner in each of 49 categories, who will take home the Gold Award.
- An expanded slate of Grand Honors Awards will be presented live at the Sofi Awards Gala during the 2024 Summer Fancy Food Show in New York City, including the following:
- Product of the Year — Food
- Product of the Year — Beverage
- Outstanding New Product
- Outstanding Classic
- Outstanding Packaging Design
“The Sofi Awards, like all SFA programs, exist to support and celebrate our members, and we’re pleased to have the chance to elevate the Sofi program based on what we’re hearing from those members,” said Phil Robinson, senior vice president of member development at SFA. “Having just one Gold Award winner in each category allows us to focus on the single ‘best of the best’ product, which could be a new-to-market innovation or a known superstar. And of course, we’re looking forward to celebrating all the winners at the big Sofi Awards Gala in New York City.”
SFA works with the Food Innovation Center at Rutgers University (FIC) to manage the judging of the Sofi Awards each year. Through anonymous tastings, FIC experts as well as specialty food buyers, journalists and influencers, will evaluate products in 49 categories ranging from Alcoholic Beverages & Cocktail Mixes to Yogurt, Kefir and Other Dairy. A detailed process assesses entrants for their flavor, appearance, texture, aroma, ingredient quality and innovation. All Sofi winners receive promotion at the Fancy Food Shows and via SFA media, publicity and social media support, and branding tools and resources. To submit your product for consideration, visit the SFA’s website.
Attendees of the Summer Fancy Food Show will have the chance to celebrate the Sofi Award winners at a gala on June 24. More details are set to be released on that event later this year, according to the SFA.
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