Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Lola’s Fine Hot Sauce

RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ranking Member of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Lola’s Fine Hot Sauce of Polk County. Throughout this Congress, Ranking Member Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties. 

“There’s no better way to celebrate National Hot Sauce Day than recognizing a small business that has brought some spice to Polk County and the world with its delicious hot sauce,” said Ranking Member Ernst. “I want to congratulate mother and son duo Taufeek and Lola Shah for achieving their American Dream, giving back to their community, and building a business that honors their family’s heritage.”

From its humble beginnings as a stand at local farmers markets, Lola’s Fine Hot Sauce has grown into a successful business that partners with over 14,000 retailers around the globe. The secret ingredient to success for founder Taufeek Shah was a family hot sauce recipe from his mother and the company’s namesake, Carmelita “Lola” Shah. Today, after branching off from the original recipe, the business offers a variety of hot sauces and salsas, merchandise, a Southern Jalapeno Bloody Mary mix, honey jalapeno beef jerky, and Lola’s Original Seasoning. Taufeek currently serves on the board of directors for both the Iowa Center for Economic Success and the Des Moines Area Community College Foundation. Lola’s Fine Hot Sauce is a proud member of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce and celebrated its seventh business anniversary in 2024.

Stay tuned as Ranking Member Ernst recognizes more Iowa small businesses across the state with her Small Business of the Week award.

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