The Connecticut Specialty Food Association (CSFA) held its 13th Product Awards Competition in March during which 199 specialty food items from Connecticut-based manufacturers were entered in 36 categories.
Apple Pie Jam from Killam & Bassette Farmstead in South Glastonbury, Conn., was named the Food Product of the Year.
A panel of 25 judges consisting of local media personalities, food writers, Connecticut chefs and wine specialists scored products on overall taste/flavor, texture, aroma, and appearance. Each judge was assigned to specific categories, responsible for evaluating an average of 25 different products.
Categories included breads, cheese, chocolate, Connecticut grown, dessert, gluten-free, ice cream, jam, organic, pasta sauce, salad dressing, savory condiments, snack food, syrup and many others. A variety of wines produced in Connecticut were also judged.
The Connecticut Specialty Food Association Product Awards Competition is designed to help Connecticut companies stay strong by showcasing the high-quality foods produced in state to consumers. Those looking for Connecticut specialty food products can visit www.ctspecialtyfood.org.
The CSFA is a subdivision of the Connecticut Food Association and is a nonprofit organization that represents small food businesses based in the state.