Danisco USA Inc. (New Century, Kan.) has teamed with Prepared Foods and Dairy Foods magazines to announce the 2004 Knowledge Awards. The goal of the competition is to “accommodate consumer demand for healthy, safe and tasty food.” The contest is open to junior, senior or graduate students at four-year accredited colleges with declared majors in food science or related disciplines. It is intended to encourage the development of innovative new food and beverage products using at least one Danisco ingredient. Several resources are available to interested participants, such as a communication kit, presentation folder and brochures. Additionally, the company has created a Knowledge Award website: www.danisco.com/knowledgeaward/us, and is offering access to Partnerweb, Danisco's Internet tool that provides customers around the world with direct access to a huge base of technical knowledge and information regarding food ingredients and trends.

Entries will be judged on a variety of criteria, including originality, market potential, nutritional profile, flavor and aroma, texture, appearance and more. A panel of up to 10 members will determine the winners. A total of $17,000 will be awarded: $10,000 for first place, $5000 for second and $2,000 for third. Winners will be notified July 31, 2004, and will be presented at Prepared Foods' 2004 New Products Conference in Scottsdale, Ariz., October 10-13, 2004. Entries must be received no later than January 15, 2004.

For more information, contact JoAnn Rupp, Danisco, 800-255-6837, ext. 1301.