Kern Tec and BettaF!sh earn top honors in EIT Food’s Marketed Innovation Prize 2024

In a decisive step toward promoting a sustainable and resilient food system, EIT Food has unveiled the winners of its Marketed Innovation Prize 2024. Among the standout startups are Kern Tec and BettaF!sh, recognized for their remarkable contributions to food waste reduction and alternative protein innovation, respectively. This prestigious initiative, supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), awards startups that have successfully launched impactful products or services into the market, accelerating the transition to a healthier and more sustainable food ecosystem.

Kern Tec, an Austria-based startup, clinched the 'Best Food Waste Reduction Solution' award for its pioneering work in transforming overlooked food byproducts into high-value ingredients. By upcycling fruit pits—specifically apricot, cherry, and plum seeds—Kern Tec produces nutritious, sustainable ingredients for the food, beverage, cosmetic, and industrial markets. This innovative approach not only reduces food waste but also creates new opportunities for circular economy practices.

Luca Fichtinger, representing Kern Tec, underscored the significance of the recognition. “We are incredibly honored to receive the ‘Best Food Waste Reduction Solution’ award. This recognition reinforces our mission to transform food waste into valuable, sustainable products. By upcycling apricot seeds into nutritious snacking options, we aim to reduce waste while promoting a more circular and sustainable food system. This prize not only validates our efforts but also inspires us to continue innovating and scaling solutions that contribute to a better food system for everyone.”

Kern Tec’s model addresses the staggering amount of fruit pit waste generated globally, turning what would traditionally be discarded into a profitable, nutrient-rich resource. Their products not only appeal to health-conscious consumers but also meet increasing demands for sustainable food solutions, positioning the company as a leader in reducing agricultural waste.

BettaF!sh, another distinguished winner, took home dual honors for 'Best Alternative Protein-based Solution' and 'Woman in Innovation', the latter awarded to Deniz Ficicioglu, Managing Director & Co-Founder. BettaF!sh has made waves by developing innovative fish alternatives crafted from regeneratively cultivated seaweed. This ocean-friendly protein source not only provides a sustainable food option but also alleviates pressure on land-based agriculture.

Ficicioglu’s passionate vision for a sustainable ocean economy resonates with BettaF!sh’s core mission. “We are beyond honored to receive the 'Best Alternative Protein-based Solution' and 'Woman in Innovation' awards from EIT Food. These accolades fuel our mission to build a new ocean economy—one that eases the burden on overused land-based agriculture and preserves precious resources for future generations,” she said.

BettaF!sh’s products utilize seaweed, a zero-input crop that grows abundantly in oceans without the need for fertilizers or freshwater. By turning seaweed into nutrient-rich, fish-like products, BettaFish not only offers an innovative food choice but also raises awareness of ocean conservation. Ficicioglu noted, “The ocean feeds billions, produces half of our oxygen, and holds the key to a truly sustainable future—yet it receives just 1% of climate investments. This must change.”

With EIT Food’s support and a robust innovation network, BettaF!sh is poised to scale its operations and drive the message of ocean sustainability to wider audiences. Their approach also highlights the importance of collaborating with traditional fishing and food industries to build a more regenerative and resilient food system.

EIT Food’s Marketed Innovation Prize recognizes startups that have not only innovated but also successfully brought their solutions to market. Richard Zaltzman, CEO of EIT Food, emphasized the broader impact of the winners: “These winners of the Marketed Innovation Prize are leading change across our entire food system, from advancing protein diversification to developing AI-powered farming solutions. They’re bringing exciting, healthier choices to consumers and empowering food producers with innovative and sustainable techniques to boost efficiency and productivity.”

The €10,000 and €5,000 prizes awarded to these startups are more than financial boosts; they are validations of the startups' critical roles in shaping the future of food. From Kern Tec’s circular economy approach to BettaF!sh’s ocean-focused protein solutions, these innovators demonstrate that sustainable food practices are not just concepts but viable market realities.