Papa Mountain was named the grand prize winner of the 2026 Flavor of Georgia food product competition for its Garlic and Herb Bread Rolls, selected from among 180 products entered in 12 categories, according to a March 30 announcement.
The annual contest is seen as an important platform for both new and established food businesses in Georgia seeking recognition or access to new markets. Since its inception in 2007, more than 2,410 products have been entered into the competition.
“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.”
Flavor of Georgia is hosted by the department of food science and technology at the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. The event aims to support entrepreneurship through public-private partnerships. “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.”
This year’s competition featured entries from 80 companies across various categories such as baked goods, barbecue sauces, beverages, cakes, condiments, confections, dairy products, jams and jellies, meats and seafoods, miscellaneous foods like grits or pies, pickled vegetables or salsas—and snack foods. Category winners included Crunchy Peanut Seasoning by PODI Life (Cumming), Caribbean Hibiscus by Caribbean Hibiscus (Decatur), Sweet Potato Cheesecake by Dorothy’s Desserts (Atlanta), Summertime Blues by Atlanta Burns (Pine Lake), The Complete Georgia Collection by Xocolatl Chocolate (Atlanta), Honey Peach Pecan Cream Cheese by Now Schmear This! (Austell), Summer Berries and Wine Spread by Georgia Jams (Williamson), Piecasso: Chicken Bacon Spinach Pie by Pouch Pies (Norcross), Stone-Ground Grits by Artisan Milling Co. (Rome), The Green Tomatoes by Evergreen & Market ([PICKLES], Tucker) as well as Sugar Fried Pecans—winner both in Snack Foods category and People’s Choice Award—by Ocmulgee Orchards (Hawkinsville).
Each finalist was given exposure through a digital directory viewed widely within industry circles; they also received promotional materials including use rights for a finalist logo on packaging plus news releases tailored to their achievement.
In closing remarks at Savor the State: A Flavor of Georgia Tasting Experience held at Athens’ Classic Center—which drew hundreds—CAES Dean Nick T. Place said: “At the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences we are committed to fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurial spirit that drives our state’s food industry… Our aim is to strengthen local businesses boost Georgia’s economy highlight incredible potential homegrown ideas ingredients.”
