Excitement is building among Jamaica’s food innovators as the countdown begins to Thursday, June 25, 2026, when the winner of the coveted Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards 2024 Best (New) Local Product Award will be revealed.

Thirteen standout contenders representing small, medium, and large enterprises gathered at the AC Hotel Kingston on Tuesday, May 12, for an intense and inspiring judging session led by Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards conceptualiser Novia McDonald-Whyte, alongside Jamaica’s Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining Floyd Green and a distinguished panel of 15 judges and guest judges.

The atmosphere was charged with creativity, ambition, and national pride as participants showcased products that reflected Jamaica’s rich culinary heritage while embracing innovation and market-ready appeal. From bold flavour profiles to inventive packaging and locally sourced ingredients, the competition highlighted the growing strength and sophistication of Jamaica’s agro-processing sector.