Voting is now open for the Plant-Based Solution of the Year category at the International Confectionery Awards 2026, giving readers the opportunity to recognise outstanding plant-based innovations demonstrating functionality, quality and sustainability.
The award celebrates the creativity and expertise behind plant-based confectionery solutions, recognising manufacturers and ingredient suppliers developing innovative alternatives that improve taste, texture, appearance and manufacturing performance across the global confectionery industry.
Recognising Plant-Based Confectionery Innovation
This year’s shortlist brings together four finalists representing different areas of plant-based innovation, from alternative proteins and natural colourings to gelatin-free confectionery and sustainable cocoa alternatives.
The finalists for Plant-Based Solution of the Year 2026 are:
DANISCO® GRINDSTED® DuoGel – Developed by IFF, this plant-based stabiliser system combines pectin and carrageenan to deliver the elastic, chewy texture associated with traditional gelatin-based gummies.
EXBERRY® Shade Intense Pink Blossom – Developed by GNT, this plant-based colouring concentrate uses non-GMO sweet potato and purple carrot to deliver vibrant pink shades.
FABUMIN – This innovative plant-based ingredient transforms upcycled legume-based materials into a functional alternative to traditional egg and dairy proteins.
Nukoko No1 Powder – Developed by Nukoko in partnership with Döhler, this cocoa alternative uses European-grown fava beans processed through fermentation, roasting and grinding to create cocoa-like flavour and functionality.
Together, the finalists highlight the diversity of plant-based innovation across the confectionery industry and the different approaches suppliers are taking to address changing consumer expectations, sustainability challenges and manufacturing requirements.
Joseph Clarke, Senior Editor of International Confectionery, said: “The quality and diversity of nominations we have received this year highlight the creativity, innovation and expertise driving the global confectionery industry forward.
“Now it is over to our readers to decide who deserves to win from our finalists. These awards provide an opportunity for the industry to celebrate the products, solutions and individuals making a genuine contribution to the future of confectionery, and I would encourage everyone across the sector to get involved and cast their votes.”
Cast Your Vote Today
Voting for Plant-Based Solution of the Year is now open here.
Readers can explore the four shortlisted solutions before selecting the innovation they believe deserves this year’s award.
Voting closes on 9 November 2026.
The winner of Plant-Based Solution of the Year will be revealed during the International Confectionery Awards 2026 ceremony on Thursday, 26 November, broadcast via LinkedIn Live.
