How we selected the winners after tasting over 530 items for the 2024 Pantry Awards

Welcome to SELF’s second annual Pantry Awards! We’re excited to showcase the best packaged foods that not only sustain us physically but also bring us joy. Whether it’s a colorful tin of olive oil brightening up your kitchen or a satisfying boxed mac and cheese after a long day at work, food plays a significant role in our lives. In this year’s awards, we feature 74 winners across three categories: Snacks, Crackers, Chips, and Bites; Sauces, Spreads, Oils, and Condiments; and Pantry Staples. We also provide practical tips on how to make meal preparation easy using these award-winning products in various creative ways.

Before we delve into the winners, let’s take a look at the extensive process behind selecting them. With 533 submissions, we carefully reviewed each one, considering factors such as accessibility, fair pricing, and alignment with our values. We tested 422 products with the help of SELF staffers, dietitians, chefs, and food enthusiasts to ensure that only the best items made it to the final list. Our goal is to celebrate products that are not only delicious but also align with our values by avoiding harmful diet culture messaging or low-quality substitutes.

One of the new stories featured in this year’s awards focuses on overcoming the fear of tinned fish, highlighting its convenience and nutritional benefits. Additionally, we provide 8 healthy and delicious quick recipes using our award-winning products, making meal planning a breeze. Another story emphasizes using store-bought sauces to elevate weeknight meals, proving that adding a flavorful sauce can transform any dish. These stories aim to inspire readers to think outside the box and make cooking at home both delicious and effortless.

We believe in celebrating food that brings joy and sustenance to our lives, and the Pantry Awards exemplify our commitment to recognizing exceptional packaged foods. These products not only make meal preparation easier but also add a touch of excitement and flavor to everyday dishes. So whether you’re looking to shake up your pantry staples or need inspiration for quick and easy meals, the Pantry Awards have got you covered with the best of the best in the world of packaged foods.

In conclusion, the SELF Pantry Awards celebrate the best packaged foods that not only nourish us physically but also bring us joy. With 74 winners across three categories, we showcase products that are both delicious and practical for everyday use. By highlighting easy and creative ways to incorporate these products into meals, we aim to make cooking at home a fun and stress-free experience. So if you’re looking to revamp your pantry staples or find inspiration for quick and flavorful dishes, the Pantry Awards offer a comprehensive guide to the top packaged foods on the market.