From initiatives in developing countries to urban gardens when it comes to ethics. From sustainable paper packaging to capsule collections in the packaging industry. And when it comes to innovation, from the most creative plant-based protein on offer right down to the latest developments in organic. These are just a few of the many original features nominated for the new Better Future Award, promoted by TUTTOFOOD in collaboration with Gdoweek and MarkUP, leading publications in the fields large-scale retail and marketing respectively.

Among the dozens of companies across the award's three categories - Ethics and Sustainability, Innovation and Packaging - there are plenty of unique ideas that exploit innovation on different levels: from ingredients to processes, from formats to the social sustainability of a project. New products that address the growing demand for plant-based alternatives include, for instance, a new vinegar made from dates, an innovative organic oil that blends coconut and avocado, and a line of pasta enhanced with superfoods. There’s no shortage of ideas that mix innovation with tradition and regional excellence. Among these are a PGI almond pesto and new, contemporary interpretations of traditional chocolate.

And what's new in packaging? A format that’s definitely unique on the Italian market is spray condiments based on ingredients from the Made in Italy culinary tradition, while gift boxes are also landing in the food industry featuring, of course, Italian products, and there’s no shortage of fresh packaging for fish, ready meals or drinks, such as fruit juices. The area of ethics and sustainability also stands out because of its focus on social issues, with, for example, projects aiming to reintegrate offenders through handcrafting traditional products, while the environment was heavily featured with initiatives for safeguarding bees or ancient grains.

Ideas are being evaluated by three panels of experts, one for each category, with the winners due to be revealed and awarded during TUTTOFOOD, held alongside HostMilano and MEAT-TECH at fieramilano from the 22nd to 26th of October.