At the IGL innovation competition for food and beverages, which the Technical University of Munich organizes, the winners in the “Beverages” category used Symrise taste components in their creations. The “Hallo eVera” aloe vera soda concept took first place in the competition, while “Cärry” curry soda clinched second place. The jury assessed the beverages based on the criteria of “innovation/concept,” “sensory impressions” and “overall product.” Held at the Academic Faculty of Brewing and Food Technology at the Weihenstephan Science Center, the competition awards beverages and foods developed by students.

“We’re delighted that the students who used our products won gold and silver in the ‘Beverages’ category,” says Wilhelm Resanovic, Global Account Manager Beverages at Symrise and on-site mentor at the IGL. “Symrise would like to continue to be a strong partner to students in the future and help them with their training through the IGL competition.” The company also plans to support students in the years to come with technical expertise, market data and figures, marketing information and sensory and formula-based product solutions.

Employers are interested in IGL participants

In addition to their regular lectures, students can also participate in the innovation competition. They have a period of one year to develop their own beverage or food, and must take into account every aspect of the value chain – from taste to production. In one concept, they also put a great deal of thought into their target group and sales. During a “preliminary tasting round,” a jury of 50 samples and evaluates the concepts and analyzes the first prototype for its sensory impact. The jury then invites the groups with the most promising product ideas to the final round.

Student participants and winners of the IGL can now look forward to some special attention: Employers take notice of the event. The competition has also become something of a platform for product creators, having led to five spin-offs over the past two years, including the “BABO blue” mixed beer drink, which is now sold throughout Germany.