Food - Appetizers

Initial Bites Earn State Fair Honors for Ankeny Cook

Ann Gillotti of Ankeny won first place and a $60 cash award in the Appetizers competition judged Saturday, August 12, at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.

Lauren Petersen of Knoxville earned second place and $30. Rita Cashman Becker of Fort Madison claimed third place and $10.

Judges also awarded Honorable Mention to Amy Fuson of Indianola.

Entries were judged on appearance and taste.

The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. There are 138 divisions, 695 classes and over 6,800 entries at this year’s Fair. Food Department judging is held in the Elwell Family Food Center.