The big winner of the prestigious SIAL Innovation contest was unveiled on May 2 at the first day of the show. The winner was the Saffron Sugar Cube by Taj Food (Canada/Sri Lanka). The company combines saffron and sugar in an interesting mix of flavours. Saffron Sugar Cube is 100% natural.
The Grand prize was worth USD$120,000, with Nielsen providing winners with a project worth $30,000 and the SIAL Network providing a free exhibition space at all the SIALs, including Paris 2018.
SIAL Innovation is the only international contest with a presence in the four corners of the world. Made up of food professionals, managed by SIAL Canada 2017 food-innovation ambassador Dana McCauley, and presided over by Xavier Terlet and the XTC World Innovation firm, the jury rewards 10 finalists and hands out one Grand Prize.
Recap of the 10 Finalists:
- Le Moulin à champignons, SABAROT – France
A select blend of mill-dried mushrooms. A truly convenient way of using mushrooms when cooking at home.
- Le Petit Quinoa, SABAROT – France
Another product by this French company has been noted for its convenience as well as its health benefits: Le petit Quinoa, a blend of grains and quinoa sold in the shape of a sausage, is designed to be sliced and pan-fried in minutes. High in protein and gluten-free, this product combines enjoyment, health, and convenience.
- Turbana Plantain Chips, Turbana – United States
Consumer health benefits pop up again, along with novel taste, in these plantain chips, which are free of cholesterol, saturated fat, and gluten.
- SAUCE MAC & CHEESE, Les Aliments O’Sole Mio – Canada
This product is a fresh, readymade mac-and-cheese sauce sold in a spouted container. The product scored well with the jury for its convenience and time-saving nature.
- 29 FEVRIER MAPLE-IN-A-TREE, Groupe 29 février – Canada
29 Février (“February 29”): What a novel name for a Canadian classic – maple syrup. The jury had great things to say about its “bag-in-tub” configuration, which protects the product and allows it to keep longer.
- Saffron Sugar Cube, Taj Food, Minami Inc. – Canada
Saffron and sugar combine in an interesting mix of flavours. Saffron Sugar Cube is 100% natural and sold in highly convenient re-sealable packaging.
- VERMOUTH VINEGAR, Vinagrerias Riojanas – Spain
Is it still possible to innovate in vinegar? Of course, as demonstrated by this Spanish company with vermouth vinegar. A product that reacquaints consumers with vinegar through a novel, premium taste.
- Quinta Quinoa, Katan – Canada
Did you know quinoa grows in Ontario? Get ready to rediscover it as a local product. High in protein and iron, Quinta Quinoa is sold in a freestanding re-sealable bag.
- Crispy Dill Pickled Carrots, Safies Speciality Foods Company – United States
While this may look like a traditional product, these spice- and vinegar-marinated Safies carrots, with their elegant packaging, are as innovative as they are delicious.
- Patty Fresh, Tiffany Gate Foods – Canada
Patty Fresh, is a fresh, vegetarian pre-cooked roll that is meant to be sliced by the consumer for added convenience.
