Judges have selected Papa Mountain’s product, Garlic & Herb Bread Rolls, as one of 36 finalists to compete in the second and final round of the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences’ annual Flavor of Georgia Food Product Contest.
Narrowed from a field of more than 180 products submitted by 80 businesses, the finalists will compete on March 27 at The Classic Center in Athens with an award ceremony to follow. The 2026 event, Savor the State, is open to the public from 2 to 6 p.m. The $20 public admission includes samples from finalists in attendance, a tote bag and one drink ticket. Attendees will also be able to purchase products from finalists. Tickets are now available.
Papa Mountain’s Garlic & Herb Bread Rolls
Bursting with flavor from fresh-grated organic grass-fed cheddar and Parmesan, infused with a vibrant blend of Italian herbs—thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary, sage, and roasted garlic.
Garlic & Herb Bread Rolls deliver the comfort of warm, freshly baked bread with clean, simple ingredients. Fully baked and ready in minutes, each roll is crafted with a rich medley of savory garlic and aromatic herbs, creating bold, crave-worthy flavor while staying true to Papa Mountain’s promise of honest ingredients and effortless comfort for modern families.
Representing Georgia’s diverse culinary heritage
The contest is the state’s proving ground for small, upstart food companies as well as established products looking for recognition or new markets. This year’s finalists represent all corners of the state and the best of Georgia’s diverse culinary heritage.
“In its 19th year, Flavor of Georgia continues to grow as a showcase event for the Department of Food Science and Technology and the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences,” said Faith Critzer, interim head for the department. “Everyone who works with Flavor of Georgia agrees that one of the most exciting aspects of this CAES Signature Event is partnering with food business entrepreneurs who are turning bold ideas into market-ready products.”
“Supporting their journey through this event and other outreach opportunities really demonstrates the great things that can happen through strong public-private partnerships,” Critzer added.
Judges for the final round of the contest will include food product experts, community members, local businesses and political leaders. Entries are evaluated by category based on Georgia connection, commercial appeal, taste, innovation and market potential. Contestants will provide samples to judges while pitching their products in a three-minute presentation. Winners will be named for each category, the overall grand prize and a people’s choice award, which will be chosen by event attendees.
More than a contest — it’s a business booster
Flavor of Georgia is more than a contest; it helps promote and showcase the variety and success of food entrepreneurs in the state. Since 2007, more than 2,410 products have been entered into the contest, and participating businesses have experienced increased sales, business contacts, publicity and overall interest in their products.
The Flavor of Georgia Food Product Contest is organized by the UGA CAES Department of Food Science and Technology and 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. This event is part of CAES Signature Events, which showcase outstanding faculty contributions, foster community and industry collaboration, and highlight the college’s impact on a global scale.
More information about the contest is available at flavorofgeorgia.caes.uga.edu and by following the contest on Facebook, X or Instagram.
Product Contact
Papa Mountain
(Your phone number)
Contest Contact
Joseph Harrison
706-542-0272
Media Contact
Jordan Powers
706-542-4274
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