Maine Food Producers Received Golden Fork Awards

Four local businesses earned top honors at the biennial Maine Food Producer Showcase in Portland.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Food and Drink

Screen-print poster illustration of a wooden cheese board with a wedge of cheese and a glass decanter, representing Maine artisanal food. — Four Maine-based food and beverage companies received Golden Fork Awards at the biennial Maine Food Producer Showcase held in Portland this week. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The biennial Maine Food Producer Showcase concluded with four Maine companies receiving Golden Fork Awards for excellence. More than 70 producers from across the state participated in the event at the Holiday Inn by the Bay.

Why it matters

The showcase serves as a critical networking hub, connecting local producers with buyers, distributors, and chefs to facilitate regional business growth. These awards highlight standout products within the state's vibrant food and beverage industry.

Four businesses were honored with Golden Fork Awards at an event featuring over 70 food, beverage, and seafood producers. The awards recognized top products in savory, sweet, seafood, and beverage categories.

The players

Haymay Creamery

This Farmington-based producer was recognized for its Pudge cheese.

Molässa

This Portland company won the top sweet category for its Hot Molasses product.

Mark Foods/Bristol Seafood

This Portland entity earned the seafood award for its Wilder Miso Sablefish.

Three of Strong Spirits

This Portland distillery was awarded for its Valley Cove Rum.

University of Maine System Graduate & Professional Center

This institution served as the presenter for the biennial industry showcase.

The details

Haymay Creamery of Farmington took the Best in Show, Savory, award for its Pudge cheese. Other winners included Portland-based firms Molässa for Hot Molasses, Mark Foods/Bristol Seafood for Wilder Miso Sablefish, and Three of Strong Spirits for Valley Cove Rum.

The awards were presented during the showcase on October 8, 2026.

Industry Dynamics

The biennial Maine Food Producer Showcase represents a key effort to scale regional culinary businesses by bridging the gap between local makers and commercial buyers. These awards mirror larger industry trends where producers increasingly prioritize high-end recognition to secure placement in competitive retail markets.

Residents and visitors can expect these award-winning products to gain higher visibility on menus and store shelves throughout the city. Shoppers interested in supporting local industry can now identify these specific items as verified award winners.

The takeaway

These awards provide a clear benchmark for consumers looking to support top-tier local food and beverage producers. Residents can use this list of winners to discover high-quality, state-sourced items during their next trip to a local grocer or restaurant.