H-E-B looking for Texas' best foodmakers

Twenty-five food makers across Texas have a shot at getting their products on H-E-B shelves as part of the grocer’s innovative Primo Picks Quest for Texas Best contest.

This year's variety and flavorful entries ignited the judges' taste buds as they whittled more than 400 submissions from across the Lone Star State to 25 exceptional finalists.Quest for Texas Best contest submissions came from 74 Texas towns, yielding a delicious mix of sauces, salsas, spices, sweets and spreads along with meats and mixes.

During the deciding round at the Houston Food Bank Aug. 12 and 13, a panel of expert judges will critique the creators of the finalist products to vet their potential as retail suppliers. Through this process, they will examine each item for quality, marketability and readiness for production.

Four winners will receive cash prizes and consideration for coveted space on H-E-B shelves. The $25,000 Grand Prize carries an additional accolade: that winner will be named a "Texas Best" Primo Pick. A first-place winner will receive $20,000, with $15,000 awarded for second-place and $10,000 for third place.