Students from the Faculty of Agro-Industry, Chiang Mai University (CMU), achieved outstanding success by winning the prestigious Royal Trophy of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn at the Food Innovation Contest 2026, held on 12 June 2026. The Faculty also received the First Runner-Up Award and the Popular Vote Award, marking a remarkable second consecutive year of championship achievement.

Royal Trophy Winner

Team Ache-V

Team Ache-V won the Royal Trophy of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn with their innovative product, a healthy chocolate alternative developed from Kra Bok (Irvingia malayana), a native Thai nut. The product offers a nutritious, sugar-free option for chocolate lovers.

The team members included Ms. Nattakrita Wongkhampa, Ms. Pitchaporn Pannarai, and Ms. Pittayaporn Jinapengkard, students from the Food Science and Technology Program. Their academic advisors were Asst. Prof. Dr. Suphat Phongthai and Dr. Phiphat Tangjaidee. The project received support from Kanvela Chocolate Co., Ltd.

First Runner-Up Award

Team Vega-Nest

Team Vega-Nest received the First Runner-Up Award for developing a functional beverage rich in prebiotics derived from onions. Using a unique texturizing technique, the product mimics the appearance and texture of bird’s nest while providing significant health benefits.

The team consisted of Ms. Nattanicha Siangdang, Ms. Warissara Piasriwichai, Ms. Fasai Thongsuk, and Ms. Kantsuphang Kaewdaeng, students from the Food Science and Technology Program. The team was advised by Asst. Prof. Dr. Suphat Phongthai and Dr. Phiphat Tangjaidee, with support from Yingpaisarn Agriculture Co., Ltd. and FIN.

Popular Vote Award

Team Happy Tummies

Team Happy Tummies won the Popular Vote Award with their innovative Ice Cream Sandwich, featuring distinctive ingredients and flavors that represent Northern Thailand while delivering a variety of nutritional benefits.

The team members were Ms. Pornwimon Wichiansamut, Mr. Pakinai Butsopha, Ms. Supawadee Saetang, Ms. Atchariya Chedipang, Ms. Natthinan Khongyu, and Ms. Oraphakhanapha Pinkaew, students from the Product Development Technology Program. Their advisors were Asst. Prof. Suwanna Decharattanangkul and Asst. Prof. Dr. Chitaphan Baingio.

The achievements of these student teams reflect the Faculty of Agro-Industry’s commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship in food science and technology. The awards also demonstrate the Faculty’s capability to develop innovative food products that address consumer needs while promoting the sustainable use of local resources.