EIT Food Challenge Labs 2025 Challenges

Peas — more than just protein 

Peas are more than just a source of protein — they are a goldmine of untapped potential. Yet, valuable side-streams from pea processing often go underused, missing the chance to create new markets, products, and sustainable solutions. 

This year, ASNS Ingredient invites you to think "Beyond the Pea" and turn what’s often left behind into something extraordinary — embracing unconventional and novel opportunities and encouraging a free flow of ideas beyond traditional market boundaries.

Challenge No. 1 

Expanding Non-Traditional Markets for Purified Pea Starch through Fermentation 

Description: This challenge explores the potential applications of purified pea starch obtained after wet processing. The goal is to find ways in which fermentation technologies could unlock new and unconventional market segments, creating added value beyond current applications in food or other sectors.

Solutions should be:

  • innovative,
  • sustainable,
  • economically viable, with the potential to impact both local and international markets.

Challenge No. 2 

Unlocking Non-Food Potential for Pea Inner Fibre After Wet Processing 

Description: Pea inner fibre after wet processing remains an underutilised resource. The challenge is to identify sustainable, innovative, and commercially viable non-food applications for this by-product — transforming potential waste into a valuable material.

Solutions should provide: 

  • added value,
  • implementation of circular economy principles,
  • development of new business opportunities.

Think beyond boundaries. Act with impact. 

EIT Food Challenge Labs 2025 is your opportunity to use knowledge, creativity, and technology to develop real solutions for challenges in the agrifood sector. We’re looking for bold ideas that can transform side-streams into future opportunities. If you're passionate about innovation that changes the game — this challenge is for you! 

For more information: eitfood@lbtu.lv 

Don’t miss your chance – apply here by 11 September!