Craize® Achieves 2026 sofi™ Gold Award Recognition for Innovative Snacks

Craize® Toasted Corn Snacks: A Taste of Innovation

Craize® has made headlines with its recent accolade at the 2026 sofi™ Awards, where its Everything Flavor Toasted Corn Snacks snagged the prestigious Gold Award in the Crackers and Crispbreads category. This recognition from the Specialty Food Association (SFA) positions Craize® as a notable entity within the specialty food and beverage market.

The announcement, made on January 23, 2026, took place during an engaging ceremony at SFA's Winter FancyFaire in San Diego, hosted by celebrated chef Joe Sasto. The event celebrated the best of the best in the specialty food industry, bringing together innovators, buyers, and media to acknowledge products that are shaping future culinary trends.

Michele Abo, General Manager of Kayco Beyond, emphasized the meaningful nature of this award: “Winning a sofi Award is especially meaningful because it’s a reflection of the preferences of buyers who influence specialty food trends. This award validates our vision of Craize as a unique snack that meets the modern consumer's demand for health and flavor.”

The Standout Snack

Craize® Toasted Corn Snacks combine the crunch of a chip with the versatility typical of crackers, making them a snack that can stand alone or pair with a multitude of toppings. Their unique flavor profile is achieved through a proprietary slow-griddling process that locks in taste without adding oils. Unlike many snacks on the market, Craize is made with real ingredients. Fruits, vegetables, and spices are incorporated directly into the dough, setting it apart from competitors who simply sprinkle these ingredients on top.

Moreover, Craize® prioritizes wellness, producing a snack that is vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly—a combination that appeals to a wide audience. With the promise of a good crunch, every bite of Craize snacks offers a satisfying experience without compromising health.

Signature Flavors

The brand boasts five signature flavors, catering to both sweet and savory palates:
1. Everything - A delicious blend of sesame and poppy seeds, combined with garlic and onion, reminiscent of an everything bagel.
2. Sweet Corn - Lightly sweetened with dark brown sugar, pairs well with jams and nut butters for a delightful contrast.
3. Guava - Offers a refreshing fruity taste with authentic guava puree for a tropical touch.
4. Coconut - Infused with dried coconut, vanilla, and a hint of cinnamon for a sweet, tropical experience.
5. Jalapeño Lime - A zesty combination that provides a moderate kick of heat balanced with cilantro and lime's bright acidity.

For the sofi™ Awards, over 1800 entries were evaluated through blind tastings by a panel of foodservice and retail professionals. The finalists were recognized for their innovation, exceptional quality, and taste. Craize® not only rose to this standard but also showcased its emphasis on high-quality ingredients and a commitment to health-conscious snacking.

The Road Ahead

The sofi™ Awards stand as the pinnacle of achievement in the specialty food industry, and past laureates include notable brands like Ben & Jerry's and Kettle Chips. With this award, Craize® reinforces its presence in a competitive market and encourages retailers and consumers alike to discover a snack option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or creativity.

As Craize® continues to expand, it is supported by Kayco, a well-established name in the kosher and specialty food sectors. This partnership provides access to a vast distribution network, ensuring that Craize® can reach a diverse audience across the United States.

For more insights into Craize® Snacks and to discover more about their range, visit www.gocraize.com or follow them on social media at @GoCraize. With innovative products like the Everything Flavor Toasted Corn Snacks, Craize® is set to make waves in the health-conscious snack market in the coming years.