Informa Markets will bring the Vitafoods Europe Innovation Awards back in 2026, following a successful initial run last year. The awards will recognize innovations on May 5th, spotlighting ingredients, finished products, and initiatives changing the global nutraceuticals market.

Applications are now open and will be accepted until February 27, before a panel of industry judges selects finalists in March. Finalists will be invited to pitch their innovations in Barcelona the day before Vitafoods Europe opens its doors, where an awards ceremony will be held during the event.

“The outstanding standard of last year’s award entries was a true testament to the creativity and innovative thinking shaping nutraceuticals,” said Gareth Baguley, brand director at Informa Markets. “Not only did the 2025 awards highlight breakthrough solutions and meaningful initiatives, they also showcased the collaborative spirit that’s central to the community. As the nutraceutical industry continues to grow and pioneer new ideas, we’re proud to be bringing the awards back and building on the success of the inaugural edition. We’d like to welcome all those eligible to enter, and we’re already looking forward to celebrating the innovations moving nutraceuticals forward together.”

Entries are open to all Vitafoods Europe exhibitors, with an emphasis on innovations launched within the past two years. The awards will cover a range of categories, including:

• Sports Nutrition and Active Lifestyle Ingredient
• Immune and Gut Health Ingredient
• Cognitive and Emotional Health Ingredient
• Healthy Aging Ingredient
• Weight Management Ingredient
• Nutricosmetic Ingredient
• Most Innovative, Consumer-Ready Nutraceutical Finished Product
• Diversity & Inclusion (open to all companies, including non-exhibitors)
• Sustainability

The panel of expert judges will be chaired by Colin Dennis, chair of the board of trustees at IFIS Publishing, alongside leading specialists in scientific research, regulation, market insights, and product development.