A team of students from the Faculty of Biotechnology of Universidade Católica Portuguesa, comprised by Rita Vedor and Inês Soares, will represent the country in the European final of Ecotrophelia Europe 2025, widely known as the “Champions League of food innovation.” The competition will take place on 7–8th October at the ANUGA International Fair in Germany, bringing together 18 finalist teams that won their national competitions.
The Universidade Católica Portuguesa will stand out with Snack-a-Tummy, a functionalized and sustainable snack developed by students from the the Faculty of Biotechnology, which combines technological innovation with strong environmental and nutritional concerns.
The product was designed primarily for children but can be enjoyed by all ages. It comes in a two-compartment format:
- one with stirred fermented milk enriched with tyndallised L. rhamnosus GG and its postbiotic concentrate, supporting a healthy intestinal microbiota in children;
- and another with chewy sticks made from Red Alcobaça PGI apple purée and pomace powder, an example of upcycling by-products from the food industry.
With a Nutri-Score A rating, Snack-a-Tummy is a source of calcium, high in fibre and protein, while being gluten-free. The project combines convenience, nutritional value and sustainability, incorporating innovation from its formulation to its packaging.
“Snack-a-Tummy is more than just a healthy and convenient snack – it is a product with a purpose: ‘nurturing kids and nature, one snack at a time’,” highlights the team.
Alongside Portugal, teams from 17 other countries will also compete in Ecotrophelia Europe 2025, including the debut of South Korea and the return of Austria and Switzerland after several years of absence.
