The Louisiana Lottery Corporation was recently recognized as having the "Best New Instant Game" of 2015 for its $2 scratch-off Spice It Up! by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL) at its annual conference in Dallas.

Through a strategic alliance with Tony Chachere's Creole Foods of Opelousas, the Lottery launched the ticket featuring the iconic little green seasoning can and a marketing campaign starring the animated "Little Tony" character. Winning out over other state lottery submissions, Spice It Up! sales were 51 percent better than other $2 Louisiana games in 2015. In fact, the game's early success prompted the Lottery to reorder an additional 480,000 tickets just a few weeks after its launch on March 2. The game closed in August and all prizes must be claimed by Dec. 8.

"The Louisiana Lottery has a long history of partnering with local brands to celebrate our unique cultural heritage," said Lottery President Rose Hudson. "Tony Chachere's is an endearing brand that captures the entrepreneurial spirit of Louisianians and their affinity for home cooking. We knew we had the recipe for one hot-selling ticket and were pleased the judges agreed."

At least 35 percent of Lottery ticket sales are transferred to the state treasury and proceeds are dedicated to K-12 public education. Lottery ticket purchasers must be at least 21 years of age. The Lottery encourages anyone with a gambling problem, or friends of anyone with a gambling problem, to call toll-free 1-877-770-7867 for assistance.