Team BoozyBalls from the University of Surrey proudly represented the UK at the prestigious Ecotrophelia Europe 2024 Grand Final, held at SIAL in Paris. Competing against Europe’s brightest food innovators, Team BoozyBalls showcased their unique product in a highly competitive event that saw entries from across the continent – from Iceland to Greece.
Although Team BoozyBalls did not secure a top three position, their pitch was strong, and their product—continuously refined since their victory at the UK final—stood out for its creativity and innovation. The judges commended the high standard of all entries this year, making the competition exceptionally fierce.
Ecotrophelia, a prestigious European competition, challenges young innovators to showcase their creativity and expertise in sustainable food and beverage product development. Team BoozyBalls’ participation highlights the United Kingdom’s dedication to fostering the next generation of leaders in food innovation.
This year’s Ecotrophelia competition showcased remarkable entries from across Europe, each presenting unique and innovative product concepts focused on promoting sustainability in the food and beverage industry.
The Gold Award (€4,000) went to LegumiNutty from Greece, who impressed with their sustainable and nutritious legume-based product. The Silver Award (€3,000) was awarded to Full’iz from Belgium for their innovative approach to plant-based food. The Bronze Award (€2,000) went to Les Nao’s from France, highlighting their creative entry into the competition.
Special prizes were also awarded to:
- Communication Strategy Award (€500): Tonka Egg, Croatia
- Entrepreneurship Spirit Award (€500): Opoke, Germany
“We are immensely proud of Team BoozyBalls for their dedication, innovative thinking and hard work, and ability to stand shoulder to shoulder with some of Europe’s best young food innovators,” said Chris Gilbert-Wood, Acting Chief Executive of IFST and member of the European judging panel. “The standard of entries this year was incredibly high, and we congratulate all participants for their remarkable achievements. Congratulations to Team LegumiNutty for their winning entry.”
Bertrand Emond, Campden BRI/co-organiser of the Ecotrophelia UK competition and President of the European judging panel said: "Ecotrophelia is an outstanding platform for eco-innovation, offering valuable inspiration to the food and drink industry. It harnesses the creativity and drive of our most talented food science students, backed by top academic institutions. From concept development to the final packaged product, teams gain practical, hands-on experience in launching a sustainable food or beverage product into the market."
The Institute of Food Science and Technology extends its heartfelt congratulations to LegumiNutty for their outstanding achievement in winning the Ecotrophelia 2024 competition.