On 21 January 2026, the seventh edition of the annual Food Innovation Exhibition took place at the training restaurant of the Culinary Arts Institute (CAI). The exhibition represents the culmination of the practical module “Innovation and Creativity in the Culinary Arts”, taught in the third year of the “Gastronomy and Culinary Arts” and “Hospitality and Culinary Arts” programmes at CAI, part Varna University of Management (VUM).
During the event, 17 talented students presented their innovative products, developed in line with the latest culinary trends, with a strong focus on multisensory experiences, sustainability, and market potential. The projects were evaluated by a professional jury consisting of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Maya Ivanova, Asst. Eng. Irina Petkova, and the Programme Director and Head Chef Instructor of CAI – Hugues Boutin.
The jury was highly impressed by the students’ creativity, professionalism, and entrepreneurial mindset. Among the standout concepts were OVERRA, a vegan egg alternative; “Shake Me”, a DIY cocktail kit; and Bubbly Caesar, an innovative spherified Caesar dressing that helps keep salads fresh for longer while reducing the use of plastic containers in professional kitchens.
For yet another year, the event was held in partnership with METRO Academy, whose representatives also took part in the evaluation process and presented special awards. This year’s awards were presented by Chef Vladimir Petkov.
Third place was awarded to Artur Popov for his flavoured kurut – a traditional Asian dried fermented dairy product, reimagined with a new flavour profile better suited to the European market. Second place went to Andrii Kazmin, who presented a bold sweet-and-savoury bonbon with a pork fat filling and a chocolate coating, designed as an ideal pairing with alcoholic beverages.
The grand prize and first place were awarded to Magdalena Taskova, who impressed the jury with a series of functional chocolate bonbons designed to support emotional balance and overall well-being. The products were developed in various variations – for better sleep, relaxation, improved concentration, and increased energy – thanks to carefully selected ingredients.
Once again, Food Innovation Exhibition proved that Culinary Arts Institute at Varna University of Management is among the leading educational institutions fostering innovation, hands-on learning, and the development of future leaders in the culinary industry.
