The Food for Progress team’s frozen Pulled Oumph! meat-free alternative to pulled pork scored a hat trick in World Food Innovation Awards competition with victories in three categories: Best Plant-Based Product, Best Street Food Brand, and Best Foodservice/Catering Product. Trophies were presented on the second day of the March 17-20 International Food & Drinks Exhibition (IFE) at London’s ExCeL.
The composite reasoning of the judging panel, which whittled down 380 entries from over 33 countries to just one winner in each of the 27 categories, for its Oumph! verdict was as follows:
“Innovative, on-trend product with many versatile possibilities, satisfying the demand for vegan options. Food for Progress offers a healthy alternative to animal protein in an attractive presentation, good for the planet and good for the people.
“The brand is very on trend with the ‘dirty vegan’ movement, helping to bridge the gap between meat-free eating and classic comfort foods with great taste. This is a foodservice operator’s dream – a good quality, flavorsome vegan option to rival any meat options.”
Anna-Kajsa Lidell, co-founder and head of progress strategy at Mjölby, Sweden-headquartered Food for Progress commented:
“This is incredible news for our company, and we are so proud of these awards! Not only does it highlight the fact that our products have a superior quality in terms of taste, texture and overall concept, but it is also amazing and encouraging to see that a plant-based product can win general categories that are open to all.”
The vegan-friendly Oumph! product line, made from soya beans and organic herb and spice mixes, also includes spiced kebab strips as well as pizza and fajita components. This spring a faux burger will be launched.
The company’s entire assortment is versatile and easy to cook by grilling, boiling, sautéing, deep-frying or heating over an open fire. All SKUs are high in protein and fiber, and offer a good source of iron and folic acid.
The World Food Innovation Awards competition is now in its fifth year and received 380 entries from over 33 countries in 2019. The jury consist on an international panel of 14 seasoned industry experts.
“We’re incredibly happy with the praise Oumph! is receiving in the UK,” said Anders Wallerman, co-founder and chief executive officer at Food for Progress. “We see an increase in demand across the board, from retailers, foodservice companies, restaurant chains and of course mostly importantly, consumers!”
