Food Science Students Showcase Innovation in Product Development Challenge

Students on the Level 8 Higher Diploma in Food Science and Technology recently presented their final projects as part of a practical product development challenge.

Led by Lecturer Elizabeth Russell, students worked in groups to develop a unique food product designed to address a gap in the market. The brief required each team to follow the full lifecycle of a product — from initial concept and formulation through to packaging, pricing and launch strategy.

The showcase event featured eight innovative product concepts spanning snacks, functional foods and beverages, with a strong focus on health, convenience and evolving consumer preferences.

The Best Food Product Innovation Award, presented by BWG Foods, was awarded to Dwi Aprida Wulandari, Emillia Chiweshe and Rinkesh Trivedi for their product — a Jamu-inspired herbal infusion.

Drawing on traditional Indonesian wellness practices, the concept introduces modern Jamu tea bags to the Irish market, combining cultural heritage with growing demand for natural, health-focused beverages.

This project reflects the programme’s strong emphasis on practical, industry-relevant learning — equipping students with the skills to translate ideas into viable, market-ready products.

Congratulations to all students on their creativity, hard work and innovation — a fantastic achievement.

To learn more about our Food Science programmes, visit our Food Science programmes page >