On 17–18 June 2025, the EXCEL4MED project was proudly showcased during the ECOTROPHELIA National Competition 2025, held in Athens (Greece).
Organised annually by our partner SEVT – Federation of Hellenic Food Industries, the competition brings together the next generation of food innovators: university students developing eco-innovative food and drink products with real market potential.
This year’s edition of ECOTROPHELIA welcomed 14 student teams from higher education institutions across Greece.
Participants had the opportunity not only to showcase their creations but also to engage with key players in the food and beverage sector, including researchers, entrepreneurs and academics.
A strategic platform for EXCEL4MED outreach
The event served as an ideal setting to present the objectives and vision of EXCEL4MED to a dynamic audience of future food scientists and innovators.
Thanks to the competition, our project was able to reach students who are already working at the intersection of innovation, sustainability and entrepreneurship, a perfect match with EXCEL4MED’s goals.
Through discussions and materials distributed on site, the 95 attendees learned how our project is working to reduce food waste, valorise by-products and strengthen innovation across Mediterranean fruit supply chains.
ECOTROPHELIA remains a valuable initiative for nurturing young talent while promoting sustainability and competitiveness in the food industry.
As EXCEL4MED engages with academia and industry partners alike, this event offered a chance to foster dialogue and identify future opportunities for collaboration, particularly with institutions and students working on innovative food products and circular economy strategies.
We thank SEVT for organising such a high-impact event and, once again, for giving us the opportunity to connect with Greece’s emerging food innovators.
