NCDS serves up first-ever innovation awards

July 3, 2013, Chicago, IL —The National Chocolate & Dessert Show (NCDS) announced the launch of the first-ever Chocolate and Dessert Innovation (CADI) Awards.

The competition recognizes companies and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to the chocolate and dessert industries. Products, services, and technologies representing the latest in chocolate and dessert trends need to enter by Sept.2.

“The innovations and technologies that drive the chocolate and dessert industries forward inspired us to create the CADI Awards,” says show founder Mario Pi. “This dedicated platform will be an annual opportunity to honor the contributions of all of the hard work that went into these advancements and provide deserving industry members with a mark of distinction for their efforts.”

The CADI Awards’ expert panel of judges includes Franco Pacini (director, The French Pastry School), Matthew Stevens (publisher, Dessert Professional), Liz Grossman (managing editor, Plate Magazine), and John Reed (American Culinary Federation/owner, Customized Culinary Solutions).

This group will evaluate entries in the following categories:

• Best New Product/Innovation—A revolutionary product or innovation demonstrating inventive thinking and the potential to provide solutions and make an impact in the industry in 2013. Must have been introduced after January 1, 2013; each entrant may submit up to three products.

• Best Sustainable Product—Products advancing the industry toward protecting and improving the environment such as energy-efficient equipment, green packaging, and chocolate products that support sustainable farming. Each entrant may submit one product.

• Best Flavor Profile—The most innovative flavor combination utilizing exotic, familiar, or even unexpected ingredients to build a novel and palate-pleasing profile. Each entrant may submit one product.

• Best Technology—Cutting-edge technology demonstrating the ability to improve efficiency and processes within the industry, from POS to packaging to production and beyond. Each entrant may submit one product.

Click here for all the rules, regulations, and entry forms. The deadline for submissions is July 15 with finalists announced September 2. Winners will be announced at the National Chocolate & Dessert Show, October 20-22.