Cookie, tofu companies take home top Taste honors

Honolulu Cookie Co. and Aloha Tofu Factory Inc. were named the state’s top food manufacturers Saturday at the Taste Awards, sponsored by the Hawaii Food Manufacturers Association at Dole Cannery. Hono­lulu Cookie Co. won the Innovate Hawaii Manufacturer of the Year award for a large firm (50 or more employees); Aloha Tofu Factory, for a small firm. The Taste Awards recognized nine individuals, companies and products for their performance and innovation.

Other winners: 

» Startup manufacturer: Maui Gold Pineapple Co.

» Product of the year: Hawaiian Chip Co.’s Kilauea Fire Hot Sauce

» Advocate of the year: Byron Goo, CEO of The Tea Chest

» Top supplier: HFM Foodservice

» Community service: Meadow Gold

» Innovative marketing: Hono­lulu Cookie Co.

» Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award: Roselani Ice Cream