The 12th annual KiwiNet Awards for Research Commercialisation have revealed this year's finalists, featuring innovations across a spectrum of sectors, with food technology taking center stage. The awards recognises ingenuity emerging from New Zealand’s universities and research institutions contributing significantly to both economic and societal advancements.

Source: ANDFOODS

Among the finalists in the food technology sector are Dr. Arup Nag of ANDFOODS from the Riddet Institute at Massey University, and Emily McIsaac from Daisy Lab, also at Massey University. Dr. Nag's entry, hailed for its visionary approach to food production, aims to redefine sustainable eating with breakthrough dairy alternatives. Meanwhile, Emily McIsaac’s project focuses on synthesising dairy proteins without the need for cows, offering a sustainable and ethical alternative to traditional dairy production.

The Momentum Student Entrepreneur category includes Emma Arvidson from the University of Canterbury with her 'High protein oat milk powder with impact' entry.

Source: KiwiNet - Showing left to right - Dr Arup Nag - Emily McIsaac - Emma Arvidson

KiwiNet CEO, Dr. James Hutchinson, says this years finalists all present exciting propositions. "From tackling climate change to improving health outcomes, our 2024 finalists are at the forefront of solving critical global issues. Their innovations in food technology are particularly exciting as they offer tangible solutions to the pressing challenges of sustainability and food security," says James Hutchinson.

The Kiwi Innovation Network (KiwiNet) brings together 19 research organisations to foster commercial outcomes from publicly funded research. The KiwiNet Awards are supported by major institutions, including MBIE and PwC NZ, who are committed to fostering an environment where scientific discoveries are seamlessly integrated into marketable solutions benefiting all of New Zealand.

The awards will be announced at a gala function in Auckland on October 9th.

For more information CLICK HERE.

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