Givaudan and Moonshot Pirates Collaborate to Inspire Alternative Protein Innovation

Givaudan, a global leader in flavors, taste, and nutritional solutions, has announced a partnership with Moonshot Pirates, an organization supporting young innovators. The collaboration, titled the Shape the Future Challenge, aims to inspire Generation Z participants to envision novel approaches to alternative proteins that address affordability, nutrition, and convenience without replicating conventional meat, fish, or dairy.

The initiative has drawn applications from approximately 1,000 participants aged 15 to 24, representing diverse global perspectives. Entrants are tasked with developing sustainable, nutritious, and accessible alternative protein concepts.

Finalists will present their ideas during a live-streamed pitch event on 9 January 2025. Winners will receive an exclusive visit to MISTA, an innovation platform for the food industry in San Francisco, co-founded by Givaudan and industry partners. At MISTA, winners will gain insights into alternative protein development and optimization processes for ideas, products, and investments.

“This collaboration with young leaders globally is an opportunity to drive alternative protein innovations that challenge conventional norms and deliver multi-sensory food experiences,” said Flavio Garofalo, Growth Platform Director Culinary & Plant Attitude at Givaudan Taste & Wellbeing. “We look forward to inspiring and co-creating the next generation of consumer products with our customers.”

Aneta Londa, Co-Founder of Moonshot Pirates, emphasized the importance of engaging younger generations in innovation. “These digital natives are passionate about sustainability and the future. Partnerships like this demonstrate the value of their fresh perspectives in addressing global challenges,” she said.

Givaudan will provide nine expert mentors to support participants and explore opportunities to scale promising innovations. Leveraging its global innovation ecosystem, the company will contribute its expertise, technologies, and solutions to tackle the sensory and nutritional challenges of alternative proteins.