Professional tasting competitions in the food industry and retail are an effective tool for independent product quality assessment. Such events are a neutral platform where suppliers and retailers can present their products, receive professional feedback and establish new partnerships. Read more about the principles and objectives of such competitions.
Why companies need tasting competitions
For suppliers, participation in competitions is an opportunity to demonstrate innovations, test updated recipes or confirm the benefits of a traditional product range. Retailers get a tool to update their descriptor bank and find the best products for the shelves.
The main tasks of the professional competition:
- objective evaluation of tasting samples;
- identifying category leaders;
- positioning of products in the manufacturer's line or in relation to competitors;
- confirmation of the unique properties and value of the products.
Samples may be submitted by manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers. Products are submitted from regular batches intended for sale or processing.
What products are served for tasting
The categories depend on the specialisation of the competition: from narrow-profile ones (wine, cheese, coffee) to general ones covering dozens of groups - from beverages and bakery products to deli meats, fish products, frozen convenience foods and alternative proteins.
For objectivity, products are segmented: FMCG, b2b, innovative developments, imports, etc. Industrial, craft, farm products and products with certification (organic, kosher, halal) are eligible to participate.
The organisers determine the technical requirements for the samples: category name, volume, packaging, expiry date and transport conditions.
How to prepare products for tasting
Manufacturers submitting products to the competition must comply with two main conditions: the integrity of the packaging and the relevance of the expiry date.
The products are submitted for the competition in the same form as for sale.
Further preparation is the responsibility of the organisers. The products are unpacked, portioned and, if necessary, cooked to perfection in the case of semi-finished products.
How tasting samples are evaluated
The methodology depends on the goals of the competition.
Competitive contests rank products within categories. Tasters are calibrated and samples are coded to ensure impartiality. Evaluation competitions check the compliance of products with the declared organoleptic characteristics and standards.
The tasting panels are composed of independent experts: representatives of retail, HoReCa, industry associations, manufacturing companies, and specialised educational institutions. The tasting is conducted in a "blind" manner, with no discussion between the members of the commission.
Favorite Food & Drinks is a platform for presenting new developments, testing innovations and receiving professional feedback. For suppliers, participation is a confirmation of quality, strengthening of negotiating positions and an additional competitive advantage.
How to get involved:
- submit an application and sign an agreement by 10 February 2026;
- provide samples by 20 February 2026;
- receive conclusions and awards on 24 March 2026.
The competition will be held simultaneously with Food Industry Solutions, an industry award for design and technological solutions for the food industry, HoReCa and retail.
24-25 February 2026 - VIІI Favorite Food & Drinks together with II Food Industry Solutions, Kyiv
24 March - Closed meeting of food retail leaders in the format: awards, mini-exhibition, conference, Kyiv
Register your tasting samples here https://forms.gle/6xWS5Ca5WFWWTk447
Candidates for tasters can register here https://forms.gle/UsZgecRVDx4QefjY8
The recommended deadline for applications is 10 February 2026
The best of the best - to the table!