NIFTEM-K hosted a 24-hour hackathon focused on leveraging AI to address challenges in the alternative protein industry. The event brought together young innovators, researchers, and technology enthusiasts.
On October 24, 2026, the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Kundli (NIFTEM-K), hosted Hack the Fork, India’s first AI × Food Tech Hackathon. This event aimed to explore AI-driven solutions for sustainable food systems. The hackathon was inaugurated by Ms. Alice Pjie and concluded on October 25. From an initial pool of over 85 applicant teams, 25 were shortlisted for the final round, with 22 teams from 10 states participating in the event.
Dr. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director of NIFTEM-K, highlighted the significance of this initiative, expressing confidence that it would encourage creative thinking and develop technology-driven solutions for the food sector. He congratulated all participants for their enthusiasm and commitment to innovation.
The hackathon was coordinated by Dr. Vimal Pant and supported by mentors including Chaitanya Chilukuri, Svarnim Samant, Dr. Saurabh Jain, and Abhishek Shukla. The challenge focused on harnessing AI to advance the alternative protein industry, with applications spanning plant-based food innovation, fermentation technologies, and broader food systems.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
