Students from Australia’s Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and the Netherlands’ Wageningen University took home the top prize of $3,000 for their self-heating, plant-based food box creation.
The competition was part of the ProVeg Food Innovation Challenge, which saw Korea-based CJ Foods setting a brief to develop a sustainable and convenient version of Hanwoo beef – one of the rarest and more expensive beef cuts due to its high marbling.
The winning team delivered with a beef made from textured pea protein in a box with a built-in heating element activated by the pull of a string.
The ProVeg Food Innovation Challenge, now in its fifth year, aims to inspire university students across the Asia-Pacific region to address global challenges through innovative food solutions.
Eight partner companies, including leading multinational corporations and regional businesses, were involved in spurring on new ideas for products from their existing range.
The judging criteria was based 30% on the product’s market potential, 30% on its uniqueness, 20% on its feasibility and 20% on its go-to-market strategy.
In total, 452 proposals were submitted by 1,350 students from 151 universities across more than 20 countries.
“Through this challenge, we see a growing concern and passion among young people for sustainability,” said Xiao Xia, associate director of Mars China – one the businesses involved in this year’s competition.
“It is inspiring to witness their proposals leveraging Asia’s rich diversity and potential in plant proteins. The combination of youth enthusiasm and local resources holds great promise for advancing the development of plant-based foods in the region.”
Benefits of a self-heating food box
The inspiration for the self-heating food box originated from the desire to make premium, plant-based Korean cuisine accessible and convenient for busy consumers.
The students told Food Manufacture that their goal was to replicate the luxurious experience of traditional Hanwoo beef in a format that aligns with modern lifestyles, particularly for those on the go.
“The self-heating feature enables individuals to enjoy a warm and flavourful meal without the need for external equipment, making it suitable for various settings,” a team spokesperson added.
Bio-based polymers are integral to the construction of the box, offering a plant-based and environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based materials. Their use supports a greener manufacturing process while maintaining a premium experience for users. Additionally, these polymers provide versatile end-of-life options, such as compostability, reinforcing their alignment with circular economy principles.
Once the heating element is activated, the box can maintain its warmth for 20-40 minutes.
“The thoughtful design is intended to keep food at the ideal temperature for consumption within a comfortable time frame after activation, offering both convenience and a premium dining experience,” the team explained.
The self-heating food box has a wide range of potential applications, including corporate catering, outdoor events, travel, and quick meals for busy people. It can also be used in various settings, such as homes, offices and recreational spaces.
What’s next for the winning team?
“Future expansion for our product offerings includes introducing new flavor profiles that complement our plant-based Hanwoo beef and meal options that cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences,” the team told Food Manufacture.
“Additionally, we are focused on enhancing our distribution channels, including partnerships with delivery services and e-commerce platforms. Our goal is to establish a strong market presence in Asia and beyond, while continuously innovating to meet consumer demands for convenience and sustainability.”
