On November 26-27, the Baltic Sustainability Awards 2024 announced their winner in Riga, where two TalTech subsidiaries received the first prizes. ÄIO won the food innovation category and Raw Edge won the science application category.
It is one of the most prestigious sustainability awards in the Baltics. It aims to highlight innovative initiatives and projects that have the potential to shape a better and more sustainable future.
According to Helen Sooväli-Sepping, consultant for sustainable development and green transition at TalTech, who participated in the jury for determining the awards, the Baltic Sustainability Awards are announced for the third year already. "There are ten different award categories, and this time there were a lot of nominees. We are particularly pleased that TalTech's research-based companies reached the finals and won – two of the ten categories brought home the victory".
ÄIO sustainable fats and oils
ÄIO's technologies and products offer sustainable alternatives to palm and coconut oils, animal fats and cocoa butter, paving the way for greener and more ethical food systems. ÄIO technology changes the nature of fat production by using industrial by-products and renewable resources as raw materials and turns waste into valuable products.
This process is not only sustainable, but also adaptable to the needs of various industries, including food, cosmetics and chemicals. In 2024, ÄIO received 6.1 million euros from venture capital funds to build a demo factory in Estonia. In Riga, one of ÄIO's investors, 2C Ventures, was also recognized with the investment of the year award for their decision to support ÄIO's growth.
Raw Edge soft drinks with fermented and live bacteria
Raw Edge focuses on the recycling of locally sourced biological raw materials using science-based fermentation technology. The company transforms raw materials that would otherwise go to waste into highly nutritious and tasty products that contain live bacteria and support both health and the environment. By researching and applying new strains of bacteria, Raw Edge brings new technologies into practical application. They help capitalize on surplus commodities while creating healthy and delicious products that support a sustainable food system.