Four postgraduate students from the Food Science and Technology (FST) programme area, under the team’s name Protein-Packed Power Bowl, secured a third-place victory, earning USD 1000 in the ProVeg Food Innovation Challenge Asia-Pacific (APAC) 2023. This marks the university’s second consecutive win in the competition, showcasing its commitment to excellence in food innovation.
The team was led by Awang Muhammad 'Atiq Bin Juani @ Najrien Bin Juani and the members were Dayang Siti Madihah Binti Hj Mohd Don, Dayang Hasna Basirah Mazalan, and Dayang Jhoorhanah Binti Abdul Halim. Throughout the challenge, they showcased exceptional innovation and creativity in the plant-based food sector. The journey commenced among 384 proposals during the preliminary stage, competing against submissions from 260 universities with 1093 student participants.
Advancing as one of the top 25 finalists, they competed with other leading teams in December 2023. A group of experts mentored the team: Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF), a prominent agro-food Thailand company; Mr. Peemdej Utsahajit, Director of Open Innovation; Mr. Pasu Sirisareewan, Senior Specialist - Sustainability Goals Execution Management; Ms. Praiya Uranukul, Specialist - Sustainability Partnerships and Communication Management; and Dr. Mohammad Iznan Bin Haji Tarip, a lecturer in Islamic Governance, Universiti Brunei Darussalam.
The ProVeg Food Innovation Challenge APAC 2023 aimed to bring together aspiring regional innovators to explore sustainable and plant-based solutions for the food and beverage industry.
The Bruneian team's outstanding performance reflects their commitment to addressing the evolving landscape of food innovation. The team leader expressed gratitude for the transformative experience, stating, "Participating in this challenge has been a transformative journey for our team. We are thrilled to be recognised for contributing to the plant-based food revolution."
The team's winning concept, titled "Nasi Kerabu Bliss Bowl," impressed the judges with its unique approach to plant-based Malay delights, offering balanced nutrition for health and wellness - high protein, high iron, low fat, and preservative-free, and convenience without compromise. Their comprehensive presentation outlined the concept's health benefits, sustainability features, and market potential, including halal options for the Muslim community. "We believe in the power of plant-based innovation to positively impact our lives and the environment. This victory encourages us to explore and contribute to the evolving landscape of sustainable, halal, and healthy food alternatives," added Awang Muhammad 'Atiq Bin Juani. The ProVeg Food Innovation Challenge aims to inspire the next generation of innovators to address global challenges in the food industry. The winning team will have the opportunity to see their ideas adopted by industry leaders, fostering real-world impact and change.
