USA TODAY is launching its first-ever Editor’s Picks Best Food & Groceries 2026 award this fall, and the national publication is calling on manufacturers and brands to nominate their most innovative and high‑quality products.
Why the award matters
The new award aims to help consumers cut through a crowded marketplace by highlighting staples and specialty items that excel in innovation, performance, quality and value. A designation as a USA TODAY Editor’s Pick signals that a product has earned the confidence of the newspaper’s editorial team and stands out among the year’s releases.
How nominees will be evaluated
The USA TODAY editorial team will assess submissions using a combination of expert insights, hands‑on testing, online reviews and real‑world experience. While a nomination does not guarantee inclusion on the final list, it ensures that editors have the opportunity to consider each product for the inaugural awards program.
Eligibility and categories
Brands may nominate pantry staples, refrigerated favorites, frozen foods, snacks and any product that helps Americans shop, cook and eat better. The award welcomes a broad range of items—from olive oils and tinned fish to coffee creamers and sweet treats—so long as they demonstrate genuine innovation and consumer benefit.
Key dates
- Nomination deadline: October 23, 2026
- Winner announcement: November 9, 2026
Companies interested in participating should submit their product details through USA TODAY’s online nomination portal before the October deadline.
What this means for consumers
When the winners are announced, shoppers will have a trusted, nationally recognized guide to the year’s top food and grocery products. The award is designed to make it easier for families to choose items that support healthier meals, smarter shopping and better value.
How to submit
Brands can find the nomination form on USA TODAY’s website. The submission should include product specifications, any relevant testing data, and a brief description of why the product deserves recognition.
By spotlighting excellence in the food and grocery sector, USA TODAY hopes to encourage manufacturers to continue innovating while giving consumers a reliable resource for making better purchasing decisions.
Original reporting: Las Cruces Sun News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
