(NDAgConnection.com) – The Dairy Management Inc. New Product Competition is accepting applications for innovative products that focus on dairy’s qualities related to calming.

The program, formerly the National Dairy Council New Product Competition, is open to U.S. undergraduate and graduate students to develop products in line with industry and consumer insights to uncover innovative dairy-based products that offer calming benefits.

Research shows that with a heightened emphasis on mental and emotional wellbeing, consumers are looking for products that calm. There is also projected growth associated with products that calm, and these benefits are of particular interest with Gen Z consumers.

Successful entries will meet competition criteria, demonstrate innovation and provide value to consumers. The judging panel includes experts from across the dairy industry and winning teams will be recognized at the Institute of Food Technologists’ annual meeting in Chicago next July.

The winning team will earn $8,000 with second place receiving $5,000 and $3,000 going to third place.

The competition provides a platform for students to bring their knowledge and expertise to dairy product innovation. Students can integrate their work on product formulation with packaging, pricing and marketing to create a product that meets consumer needs.

The deadline for submissions is Jan. 16, 2023. For information, visit www.usdairy.com