I’m delighted that IFE and FoodBev have once again partnered to run the World Food Innovation Awards, with the results announced on 25 March at ExCeL London as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week.

I’m also thrilled to have the chance to be a judge for this year’s awards and discover first hand some of the products and businesses at the forefront of food & drink innovation. Visitors to IFE prioritise innovation perhaps above all else, with retailers, wholesalers, hospitality professionals and more seeking to discover the products that will define the future of food & drink and help them stay ahead of the competition.

Having graduated as an Analytical Chemist, Steve completed a Research Masters on Maillard Reaction Flavours, with the University of Reading. This was followed by many years in commercial and technical roles with Nestlé, Northern Foods, Ashbury Confectionery and Leatherhead Food Research where he became a recognised food industry expert. The Aurora Ceres Partnership Ltd was established in 2015, and provides innovation management for the Food and Beverage industry. A key focus is technology scouting through the ‘ACTION’ technology scouting platform, and the ‘FoodDrinkACTION’ innovation portal. Steve is also a regular contributor to food and beverage industry events and has spoken on numerous topics from nutrition, including salt and sugar reduction to waste valorisation and the future of food themed discussions. He is also a regular invited expert judge for a number of food and beverage innovation awards panels.

With 13 years of experience in the food industry, I have developed a deep understanding of food processes, product development, market trends, and consumer behaviour. My expertise allows me to identify opportunities and challenges, enabling me to craft tailored solutions that align with both market demands and consumer preferences. By leveraging my extensive knowledge of production workflows and market dynamics, I strive to deliver innovative and efficient strategies that elevate product quality, optimize processes, and drive business success.

My background in gastronomy, combined with a passion for culture, has been a central pillar of my career. I blend this expertise with skills in marketing and languages, allowing me to explore diverse culinary traditions and tailor solutions that resonate with global audiences. This unique mix of knowledge and creativity enables me to craft innovative strategies that meet both consumer needs and industry trends.


I can't wait to be at the frame of the World Food Innovations Awards 2025!

Silvia D'Alesio is a dedicated researcher in Food Innovation and Packaging Design at both the University of Milan and the Politecnico di Milano. She also serves as a Brand Strategy and Scenarios lecturer at NABA in Milan. Silvia is an expert in the food industry's ecosystem, focusing on sustainable and digital production practices within the Digital Food Ecosystem at Aizoon. Ecodesigner in PLUS4 to follow companies to implement new packaging solutions that are compatible with new regulations. With over 10 years of experience, she has been actively scouting innovations in food and packaging, with a deep understanding of the EU's competitive environment, helping new food ideas become reality on a technological and scientific basis . 

Mash (aka Matthew) began his career in the food industry by founding The Bath Pig producing a range of British made cured meat products. The brand successfully supplied both high-end restaurants, multiple and independent retailers nationwide. Sales Director at The Bay Tree Food Co., he led a successful field sales team, developed a strong Food Service offering, and expanded export sales across the EU.

Now MD & Founder of Gourmet Partners, he provides valuable consultancy services to speciality food brands, including imports, logistics and providing a team of field sales experts for their clients.

With 15 years of experience in the UK’s speciality food sector, his extensive knowledge and industry network are key to driving brand growth for both UK and international brands. Mash has established strong connections with the country’s leading speciality distributors. He is also an occasion judge for the Guild of Fine Foods.

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