NEW YORK CITY (July 10, 2026) — 50Hertz Tingly Foods has been named the winner of the 2026 Fancy Face-Off competition at the Summer Fancy Food Show, taking home the $10,000 grand prize and earning recognition for its Tingly Sichuan Pepper Cashews.
Selected as one of four finalists from a field of 80 emerging brands, 50Hertz pitched its signature snack before a panel of industry judges, retailers, and food experts. The company's Tingly Sichuan Pepper Cashews were recognized as Best Debut Product and awarded the competition's top prize.
For founder Yao Zhao, the award marked a full-circle moment. Originally from Chongqing, China, Zhao attended the Summer Fancy Food Show for years as a visitor before launching a company dedicated to introducing more consumers to Sichuan pepper, an ingredient prized for its bright citrus aroma and signature tingling sensation known as má (้บป).
The winning product, Tingly Sichuan Pepper Cashews, pairs premium roasted cashews with real green Sichuan pepper to create a sensory experience unlike traditional spicy snacks.
"This award validates our belief that consumers are hungry for new sensory experiences and that Sichuan pepper deserves a place in American pantries, restaurants, bars, and snack aisles," said Yao Zhao, Founder of 50Hertz Tingly Foods.
The judges also praised the company's broader vision. Speaking to amNewYork after the competition, Fancy Face-Off judge and Meijer buyer Travis Reams highlighted the brand's long-term strategy.
"What stood out was the intentionality behind building a family of products and thinking not just about today, but what's next," said Reams.
That vision is reflected in 50Hertz's growing lineup of snacks, seasonings, oils, salts, and specialty products built around Sichuan pepper.
The $10,000 prize will be reinvested into product development, packaging, branding, and consumer education efforts aimed at helping more people discover one of the world's most distinctive culinary ingredients.
About 50Hertz Tingly Foods
50Hertz Tingly Foods is a Washington, D.C.–based company dedicated to introducing the vibrant flavor, floral aroma, and signature tingling sensation of Sichuan pepper to a wider audience. Founded by Chongqing native Yao Zhao, the company creates snacks, seasonings, oils, salts, and specialty products inspired by one of the world's most fascinating culinary ingredients.
The company takes its name from scientific research showing that the tingling sensation produced by Sichuan pepper vibrates on the tongue at approximately 50 hertz — a spark you can taste.
Learn more at www.50hertzfoods.com.
Media Contact
Yao Zhao, Founder & Chief Tingle Officer
50Hertz Tingly Foods
[email protected]
Media Kit: https://50hertzfoods.com/pages/press