In a vibrant showcase of creativity and innovation within the sweets and snacks industry, the global stage at ISM, the foremost trade fair for the sector, celebrated groundbreaking products that are reshaping the landscape. Recognising the forward-thinking endeavors of various companies, the accolades went to those embracing novel ingredients, textures, and flavours, promising customers unparalleled taste experiences. Beyond flavour, the winners demonstrated a commitment to innovative manufacturing methods, eco-friendly practices, and extraordinary packaging, aligning with a vision that transcends mere attractiveness to promote healthier and more sustainable options.

In a tradition mirroring the previous year, an impartial panel of experts from industry, trade, and science convened to select the crème de la crème of innovations. The grand announcement unfolded at the exclusive ISM Dinner in Cologne on Sunday, January 28, 2024.

“Beyond flavour, the winners demonstrated a commitment to innovative manufacturing methods, eco-friendly practices, and extraordinary packaging, aligning with a vision that transcends mere attractiveness to promote healthier and more sustainable options”

Leading the charge among the top innovations at ISM 2024 were:

  1. Planet A Foods GmbH, hailed from Germany, claimed the top spot with their revolutionary ‘ChoViva,’ a sustainable cocoa alternative. Pioneering a chocolate experience without cocoa, ChoViva boasts a climate-friendly approach. While initially introduced as an independent chocolate bar brand, the company envisions embedding ChoViva as an ingredient brand across various products. Not only does it offer a taste comparable to traditional chocolate, but it also boasts a significantly improved CO2 footprint, securing ChoViva the title of the most innovative product at ISM 2024.
  2. Belgium’s Gudrun Commercial NV secured the second position with ‘UPPA Cacaofruit Bites.’ The excellence in quality and utilisation of fruit pulp set this product apart. The ‘Upcycled’ Cacaofruit Bites, incorporating recycled fruit pulp, contribute to a 30% reduction in material usage compared to previous iterations. This sustainable approach aligns with an industry-wide trend of developing eco-friendly products that provide additional income sources for farmers.
  3. Austria’s PEZ International GmbH clinched the third spot with ‘PEZ MyHead.’ The product distinguished itself through a marketing strategy anchored in a unique design. Channeling the nostalgic power of children’s memories, the product revives the iconic dispensers of sour sherbet sweets from the 1950s. Adding an extra layer of appeal, PEZ International employs 3D printing technology to create personalised dispenser heads resembling real people. This distinctive touch imparts individual character to the dispensers, forging a strong emotional connection with the buyer.

Editorial contact:
Editor: Kiran Grewal kgrewal@kennedys.co.uk