Van Otis Chocolates Wins RCI’s Grand Confection Award for Peanut Butter and Whipped Honey Meltaway
Retail Confectioners International (RCI) recently announced the winner and finalists of its second annual Grand Confection Award, recognizing excellence in the confectionery industry. The Confection of the Year was the meltaway—a chocolate treat made with fat or nut butter as a primary ingredient.
Van Otis Chocolates Takes Home the Top Prize
Van Otis Chocolates, based in Manchester, NH, clinched the 2025 Grand Confection Award for its Peanut Butter and Whipped Honey Meltaway. This winning creation combines creamy peanut butter with whipped cinnamon honey sourced from New Hampshire, adding feuilletine for a delightful crunch.
A panel of industry experts rigorously evaluated 25 meltaway entries from confectioners across the U.S. and Canada during RCI’s Annual Convention & Industry Expo in Covington, KY. Judging was conducted blindly and based on criteria of taste, texture, appearance, and creativity.
Finalists Showcase Innovation and Flavor
In addition to the Grand Confection winner, three other entries stood out as finalists:
- Peanut Butter Diamond by Graham’s Chocolates, Geneva, IL
- Strawberry Cheesecake Meltaway by Liled’s Candy Kitchen, Vallejo, CA
- Raspberry Lemonade Meltaway by Wilbur’s of Maine Chocolate Confections, Freeport, ME
Angie Burlison, RCI Executive Director, expressed the association’s commitment to celebrating the craftsmanship and creativity of confectioners. The award serves as a platform for members to showcase their skills and receive well-deserved recognition.
All entries were prominently featured during the convention in a special display and recognized in RCI’s Convention Magazine. For a full list of entries and participants, click here.
Related: RCI to open registration for confectionery course
Industry Analysis: Impact on the Global Food and Beverage Industry
The recognition of Van Otis Chocolates and other finalists in RCI’s Grand Confection Award signals a growing trend in the food and beverage industry towards innovation, craftsmanship, and unique flavor combinations. This development could have far-reaching implications for the global market, including:
Supply Chains and Ingredients
- Increased demand for high-quality, locally sourced ingredients
- Opportunities for small-scale producers to showcase their products on a larger stage
Pricing and Consumer Preferences
- Potential for premium pricing on artisanal confections
- Shift towards consumer preferences for unique and gourmet flavor profiles
Trade Dynamics and Market Expansion
- Promotion of cross-border collaborations and exchange of culinary techniques
- Opening up new markets for specialty confections and niche products
Strategic Outlook for Food and Beverage Professionals
- Embrace innovation and creativity in product development
- Invest in quality ingredients and craftsmanship to differentiate offerings
- Stay attuned to evolving consumer trends and preferences
In conclusion, the recognition of Van Otis Chocolates and other finalists by RCI highlights the importance of creativity, quality, and innovation in the confectionery industry. This trend is likely to shape the future of the global food and beverage market, offering opportunities for growth, differentiation, and collaboration among industry players.