Your Ultimate Guide to Submitting Nominations for Better Homes & Gardens’ 2026 Food Awards

We’re now accepting submissions for the third annual BHG Food Awards. This event celebrates new pantry ingredients and products that make cooking at home easier and more fun. After thorough testing by our BHG Food Team, we will announce the winners in a 2026 issue of our magazine and on our website.

What We’re Looking For

To be considered for the Food Awards, ingredients should fall into one of these categories:

• Upgraded pantry staples: sauces, dressings, canned goods, grains, baking mixes, and more.
• Refrigerated items: meal starters, cheese, dips, and salad kits.
• Frozen products: vegetables, dumplings, and frozen side dishes.

What We’re Not Accepting

We won’t consider:

• Snack foods: chips, candies, and granola bars.
• Beverages: sodas, alcoholic drinks, and milks.
• Fresh produce: fruits and vegetables.
• Ready-made meals: frozen entrées and pizzas.
• Dietary supplements: things like protein shakes and bars.

Submission Requirements

Here’s how to submit your product for consideration:

1. Your product needs to be new and launched between January 2025 and December 2025.
2. Samples should be ready to send by August 1, 2025, with final packaging in place by October 1, 2025.
3. Products must be available across the country, either in stores or by mail, and should be a permanent offering.
4. Existing products with minor packaging changes won’t qualify. However, if your product has a new formula or design that’s better for the environment, it will be accepted.

How to Submit

You can send your submissions until Friday, July 25, 2025. Please complete one submission form for each product.

If your product is selected, we’ll reach out to you after August 1, 2025, with details on where to send samples. Finalists will be contacted after October 1, 2025.

If you have any questions, you can email us at [email protected].

More on Food Trends

The rise in cooking at home has grown significantly, especially since the pandemic. A survey by the Food Marketing Institute shows that 80% of consumers are seeking new ways to prepare meals at home. This trend highlights the importance of innovation in pantry staples.

As home cooking continues to be popular, having unique and convenient products can make a big difference. Consumers are increasingly looking for quality ingredients that can transform simple meals into something special.

We look forward to seeing your innovative products that can help home cooks everywhere!

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