Israeli Students Unveil Innovative Food Products at Tel-Hai Foodtech Conference
Students from the Food Science Department at Tel-Hai Academic College in northern Israel showcased a range of innovative food products at the 2026 Tel-Hai Food Innovation Conference. After a three-year hiatus due to ongoing conflict, the event returned to the college campus, highlighting the Galilee region's ambition to become Israel's foodtech hub. The students developed original products such as "Knaplex," a crunchy breakfast cereal flavored with knafeh and pistachio and rich in dietary fiber, and "Nonfela," a vegan fermented fish sauce alternative based on vegetables inspired by Thai cuisine.
The annual exhibition, now a tradition at Tel-Hai, featured products aligned with global nutrition trends including ketogenic and low-carb diets, gluten-free and reduced-sugar options, and plant-based protein alternatives. Notable creations included "Magic Burger," a layered marshmallow, jelly, and wafer treat enriched with omega-3 fatty acids aimed at children and teens; gluten- and sugar-free "Katayef Light" filled with sweet cheese or walnuts; a vegetable jerky made from broccoli, zucchini, and kale; and keto-friendly soft sliced bread and crispy cheese snacks.
The students also presented ready-to-eat stuffed cabbage leaves and "ShokoPop," a baked pretzel filled with chocolate cream and popping candy designed to offer a playful sensory experience. Packaging was designed in collaboration with students from the Tiltan Design College. Dr. Levi Bashir, head of the Food Science Department, emphasized the program’s comprehensive approach simulating real R&D processes from concept to market feasibility. Industry leaders attending the conference expressed strong interest, suggesting some of these innovations may soon reach supermarket shelves.
The event included academic sessions on breakthrough research such as chemical profiling of resilient plants, bioactive components, and mushroom-based alternative proteins, alongside expert panels discussing the growth of foodtech in northern Israel. The close cooperation between Tel-Hai College, the MIGAL Research Institute, and local startups strengthens the region’s position as a future center for food innovation.
