On Sept. 10, dozens of specialty food businesses gathered in Raleigh for the N.C. Specialty Foods Association’s annual fall conference. The organization promotes the specialty foods industry in the state and offers opportunities for owners to develop and improve their products. During the conference, the organization also hosted three specialty foods contests for dressings, mixes and rubs.
 |
|
 |
| In the dressings category, Fancy Nancy’s Gourmet Foods Inc. of Manteo took first place for its Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette. The company’s Red Wine Vinaigrette was the runner-up. | Lisa Shively’s Kitchen Helpers of Eden was the first- and second-place winner in the mixes category. The company took first place for its Mexican Mambo Dip Mix and second place for its Southwest Ranch Dip Mix. | Two winners were named in the rub category. Nephew’s BBQ of Garner won with its Mexican Rub. The runner-up was Ford’s Gourmet Foods of Raleigh with its Steak Seasoning Rub. |
Lisa Shively’s Kitchen Helpers Mexican Mambo Dip Mix was named Grand Champion in the competition.
You can find more information about the N.C. Specialty Foods Association, including a list of upcoming events and contests, on the association’s website.