Each team submitted materials for judges to evaluate including written proposals, video pitches, recipes and product samples. The public was invited to vote on their favorite concept for bonus points.

“This year’s Tastemaker Trials submissions harnessed the spectrum of almond benefits including versatility, nutrition and consumer appeal to create delicious and exciting products,” said Charice Grace, manager of trade marketing and stewardship at ABC. “The students demonstrated that almonds fulfill needs for intentional indulgence by not only supporting great-tasting products but also promoting health and sustainability.”

Ciara Danay Hernandez and Brianna Price from California State University, Fresno, were named this year’s winners. The food and science majors were chosen by a panel of judges with expertise in food, culinary science and product marketing for their product concept, Billion Dollar Energy – Almond Brownie Energy Cups. The better-for-you, indulgent baked snack combines almonds with pea protein crisps, cacao nibs, dates and other plant-based ingredients.