The World Plant-Based Innovation Awards are back for 2024, and the FoodBev Awards team is thrilled to introduce the first of its esteemed panel of judges! Meet Tawanda Muzhingi, returning to the judging panel. Read on to find out what Tawanda will be looking out for this time...

I am an expert in the intersection of food science, policy and business, and excited to be a returning judge for the World Plant-Based Innovation Awards. I bring a two-decade career, dedicated to fostering innovation in food and agriculture, that has equipped me to evaluate the cutting-edge advancements within the plant-based sector.

The World Plant-Based Innovation Awards offer a critical platform to recognise and celebrate the pioneers driving this transformation. By identifying and rewarding exceptional products and processes, the awards contribute to the maturation of the plant-based food industry and its integration into sustainable food systems.

The plant-based food industry is undergoing a transformative phase, characterised by rapid technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences. Breakthroughs in ingredient technology are enabling the development of plant-based products that closely mimic the sensory and nutritional attributes of animal-based counterparts. Coupled with creative marketing strategies and expanding retail availability, these factors are collectively propelling the sector towards mainstream acceptance.

As the head of international programs at the Plant Based Foods Association and Institute, I sit at the helm of global initiatives to accelerate the adoption of plant-based diets. This involves strategic partnerships, policy advocacy, and the cultivation of a supportive ecosystem for plant-based food companies through the Plant Based Foods Global Alliance. Please join us at the Plant Based Foods Global Alliance annual summit in Antalya, Turkey 6-8 November, 2024 at the Marmara Hotel. The summit is aimed at addressing systemic challenges and driving industry growth on an international scale.

Join The Plant Base and Tawanda at Bridge2Food North America as we uncover the 2024 winners of the World Plant-Based Innovation Awards. Make sure to register and attend Tawanda's session at Bridge2Food on the 9th of October as he discusses the harmonization of international plant-based food regulations.