Last Call to Enter: John "CaJohn" Hard Leads Judging at 30th Fiery Food Challenge Awards

FORT WORTH, Texas - Rezul -- There's still time—but not much. The Fiery Food Challenge (FFC) is issuing a final call for entries to its 30th Anniversary competition, with all product submissions due by May 15, 2026.

Entries will be evaluated under the direction of John 'CaJohn' Hard, who will once again oversee the official blind taste testing that determines the winners of the coveted Golden Chili Awards—honoring the very best flavors and heat in the spicy food industry.

Winners will be announced at ZestFest 2026, taking place May 29–31, 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas.

For brands looking to stand out in a competitive marketplace, an FFC award represents one of the most powerful endorsements available. Judged by chefs, food writers, retailers, and industry professionals, the competition's strict blind tasting format ensures that products are evaluated solely on taste, balance, aroma, and overall quality—making a win a true mark of excellence.

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"Winning a Golden Chili Award is more than recognition—it's a trusted seal of quality that can drive consumer confidence and increase sales," said a ZestFest spokesperson.

A four-time world hot sauce champion and the most awarded figure in fiery foods, CaJohn brings unmatched credibility, with more than 500 industry awards and over 225 first-place honors. His influence was recognized with his induction into the inaugural Hot Sauce Hall of Fame alongside pioneers such as Edmund McIlhenny.

"I love this industry and the passion behind it," said CaJohn. "The Fiery Food Challenge celebrates the best of what we do—great products, bold ideas, and a commitment to quality."

Now in its 30th year, the Fiery Food Challenge continues to be the premier platform for product recognition in the spicy foods category. For emerging brands and established companies alike, this is a final opportunity to gain national exposure and industry credibility.

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All entries must be received by May 15, 2026.

About the Fiery Food Challenge
The Fiery Food Challenge is the leading blind-judged competition for spicy foods and barbecue products in North America, recognizing excellence across dozens of categories for 30 years.

About ZestFest
ZestFest is a nationally recognized spicy food expo featuring top brands, chefs, and thousands of passionate consumers celebrating bold flavors and the chilehead lifestyle.

Enter Now:
https://zestfest.net/fiery-food-challenge/

Media Contact:
Spicy Food Productions
Greg Bagarozy
gregory@zestfest.net