Tennemo Rice Won Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee
The Dyersburg-grown rice took the top spot in a popular vote highlighting manufacturers across the state.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Organic Food
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Tennemo Rice, produced by the Tennemo Rice Family Farm and Mill, was named the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee. The competition, hosted by the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry, concluded after several months of public engagement.
Why it matters
This award recognizes the contribution of local agricultural producers to the state economy. The competition highlights the diversity of Tennessee-made products, ranging from consumer goods to specialized technology.
The result was determined by nearly 80,000 votes cast across four rounds of public participation. The winner was selected from a field of four finalists, with the outcome finalized following a nomination period that began in June.
The players
Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry
The trade association that presents the annual competition to highlight businesses contributing to the state economy.
Tennemo Rice Family Farm and Mill
The Dyersburg-based agricultural producer of the award-winning Tennemo Rice.
The details
The competition selection process involved four rounds of public voting to determine the winner among diverse Tennessee manufacturers. Tennemo Rice, which is produced in Dyersburg, competed against other state-made entries including the INFINITI QX65, the Scare Owl, and Superconducting Magnet Systems.
Timeline
June 2026: Nominations for the competition began.
September 30, 2026: Tennemo Rice was announced as the competition winner.
Health Landscape
This award serves as an annual benchmark for regional manufacturing achievements within the state. It follows the established pattern of the Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee competition to spotlight local economic contributors.
Choosing locally produced food items can connect residents more directly to the agricultural practices in their own region. Discussing food sourcing and local production labels with your local retailer can help you make informed decisions about your grocery staples.
The takeaway
This competition highlights the reach of local agricultural manufacturing across the state of Tennessee. Residents interested in regional food options may want to check local grocery store labels for the Dyersburg-produced rice.
Further reading
For more on the intersection of local production and food choices, visit Organic Food.
More information
View a list of the finalists and additional program details at the Competition information and finalists portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Thunderbolt Radio.
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Do you believe state-level manufacturing competitions help support small businesses in your community?
