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Cargill supports European Award recognising the next generation of food scientists

Cargill has sponsored the European Federation of Food Science and Technology’s (EFFOST) Student of the Year award as part of its commitment to support and foster the next generation of food scientists. This is the second year that Cargill has sponsored the award and also endorsed EFFoST’s goal to connect integrated and specialist views on food that promote health, food security and sustainability for all.

The award - which recognises excellence in food science and technology research – was open to European students currently studying for either a BSc/MSc or PhD in food science or technology and was presented at EFFoST’s annual conference dinner held in Montpellier, France on the 22^nd November by Cargill’s Didier Bonnet.

BSc/MSc student Lien Vermeir, from the University of Gent, Belgium and PhD student Jessica Newman, from University College Dublin, Ireland received first prize in their category groups. Over 180 applicants submitted abstracts compared to 46 applications last year, with a significant number of projects focusing on health, food security and sustainability. 

Speaking on behalf of Cargill at the Award Ceremony, Didier Bonnet, Director of Global Food Research said: “We are delighted to be partnering with EFFoST and sponsoring the Student of the Year Award for a second time. As part of the judging panel for the award, it was incredible to see so many more applications this year, the number has almost quadrupled, but also that so many of the projects had focused on scientific research which will enhance food security. Food security is a very important issue for everyone and one very close to our hearts at Cargill.”

Bonnet continued, “As population growth continues - with the prediction that we will reach nine billion by 2050 - Cargill believes that it is possible to feed this growing population and that science and technology can play a part in the global food security challenge. By recognising the outstanding achievements of the award applicants, we are not only celebrating the success of these talented students but hopefully encouraging the continued development of our industry and the next generation of food scientists.”

Cargill’s sponsorship included first and second cash prizes for both the BSc/MSc and PhD categories, as well as an all expense paid visit to Cargill’s Research and Development centre in Vilvoorde, Belgium for the four finalists.  All four candidates shortlisted were invited to attend the EFFoST annual conference dinner to receive their prizes. 

(Source: Cargill)

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26 November 2012