#USA #New York #Kantar #Product of the Year #consumer innovations

Celebrating Innovation: The 2026 Product of the Year Winners

On February 20, 2026, Product of the Year USA proudly announced its winners for the coveted Product of the Year Awards, an acclaimed initiative that celebrates product innovation through consumer votes. With products spanning 41 distinct categories, these awards are the result of insights gathered from a substantial survey involving 40,000 shoppers across the nation, conducted by Kantar, a prominent global research firm.

As the largest consumer-voted awards program in the United States, Product of the Year has emerged as a guiding light for consumers seeking expertly curated, high-quality products. For nearly two decades in the U.S. and over four decades internationally, the awards have provided a trusted seal of approval, helping buyers navigate the competing landscape of new market offerings that hit shelves every year. The recognized products not only showcase excellence in innovation, quality, and design but also emphasize how purchasers are increasingly prioritizing value-driven decisions when shopping.

Mike Nolan, the Global CEO of Product of the Year Management, noted that “the 2026 Product of the Year winners highlight the next wave of product innovation” showcasing brands that meet current consumer desires. Today’s shoppers are wiser, more selective, and with many new products flooding the market, the Product of the Year seal serves as a beacon for quality and trustworthiness. It encourages confidence in purchasing decisions, enhancing brand visibility and credibility.

The following products were celebrated among the 2026 Product of the Year Awards winners:

• - Tushbaby 2-in-1 Combo Carrier: A practical solution for parents needing mobility.
• - Scrubbing Bubbles Easy Clean: Streamlining bathroom cleaning processes.
• - Charmin Forever Roll: Innovative bathroom tissue that provides longevity.
• - Neuriva Memory 3D: Promoting brain health effectively.
• - Eggo Protein Waffles and Pancakes: Morning meals that combine taste and nutrition.
• - Organic Valley® American Cheese Blocks: Health-conscious cheese option for families.
• - Mucinex Children's Mighty Chews Cold & Flu: Creative remedies for younger ones.
• - Chewsday Dental Chews: Promoting canine dental health.
• - Mojo® Energy Pouches: Convenient energy boosts for busy days.
• - Kinder Frozen Dessert: A delicious treat for those with a sweet tooth.
• - Butterball Cook from Frozen Premium Whole Turkey: A hassle-free holiday feast.
• - ALDI-Exclusive Simply Nature Granola Bites: Health-forward snacks.
• - Dial Antibacterial + Hydrating Liquid Hand Soap: Balancing cleanliness with skin health.
• - LYSOL® Brand New Day: Essential for maintaining home hygiene.
• - Yankee Candle Large Original Jar: Creating the perfect atmosphere at home.
• - TheraBreath Toothpaste: Solutions for oral health needs.
• - TheraBreath Oral Rinse: Enhancing daily dental care.

The awards ceremony held on February 19 showcased the winners amidst entertainment hosted by Saturday Night Live alumni and featured stunning performances by Broadway talents. Additionally, these winners are now on display in a dedicated shopping feature on PEOPLE Online, created in partnership with People Inc. This multi-platform recognition unfolds across various leading publications, ensuring that the most innovative products gain extensive visibility.

For those interested, there’s a chance to win an assortment of these 2026 award-winning products valued at over $400 by entering a sweepstake through the Product of the Year USA website.

With the goal of guiding consumers towards the finest products, the awards represent the culmination of extensive research backed by Kantar. As pioneers in market insights, they determine trends on how consumers engage with products, providing significant recognition for brands that excel in creating innovative solutions. Winning brands are permitted to utilize the prestigious Product of the Year logo in all their marketing efforts for the following two years, a mark known to increase product sales and brand credibility.

As we bask in the glow of the 2026 winners, it becomes evident that Product of the Year USA remains at the forefront of consumer interests, continually adapting to meet the evolving demands of shoppers nationwide.