The Good Food Awards

The Good Food Awards 2017

Anyone who doesn’t yet know that we in Michigan’s Grand Traverse region are surrounded by delicious, authentic local foods, well, frankly, just needs to get out more often. But in case further proof is needed, we can look to the Good Food Awards 2017 competition. Based in San Francisco these past seven years, the Good Food Awards celebrates outstanding American food products and draws entries from all across the country. Awards are granted on flavor as well as the producer’s pursuit of craftsmanship and their commitment to sustainability and community.

This year our region boasts nine finalists from six local companies. Special mention goes to American Spoon Foods, who has had winning preserves and pickles four times previously, and Fresh Coast Chocolate Co., appearing for their second year in a row. Kudos to the first-time finalists: L. Mawby in Suttons Bay, Higher Grounds Trading Co. in Traverse City, Bear Creek Organic Farm in Petoskey and Food For Thought in Honor.

Winners were to be celebrated at a gala ceremony in late January—after this magazine went to press. Each of these companies has represented this region proudly and their products are likely available at a shop or market near you. Why not take some time to seek them out and savor a bit of the good life these good foods represent?

American Spoon
Rhubarb-Hibiscus Conserve

Bear Creek Organic Farm
Boyne Raw Honey

Food For Thought
Blueberry Lavender Organic Preserves
Michigan Pear Organic Preserves

Fresh Coast Chocolate Co.
Belize 70% Dark Chocolate
Tanzania 70% Dark Chocolate

Higher Grounds Trading Co.
Yirgacheffe Idido Coffee

L. Mawby
Bright Cider
Century Cider