May 27, 2026
From next-generation pea protein applications to regenerative chickpea programs and smarter shipping solutions, this year’s winners reflected the growing diversity of innovation shaping the future of pulses.
EPG Industries received a Highly Commended distinction for developing a shipping solution aimed at reducing cargo losses during transit.
Innovation, sustainability and new ways of expanding the role of pulses in global food systems were celebrated during the GPC Awards ceremony at Pulses 26, where industry leaders gathered to recognize companies driving meaningful change across the sector.
In the Innovation Award category, EPG Industries received a Highly Commended distinction for its Temcoat X-Liner, a container liner designed to protect pulses during transit by combining thermal protection, moisture control and vacuum sealing into a single solution. The technology aims to reduce cargo losses, improve quality upon arrival and create a more efficient supply chain for global pulse trade.
PURIS received the GPC Innovation Award for expanding the possibilities of pea protein across emerging food and beverage applications.
The GPC Innovation Award winner was PURIS, recognized for its work advancing pea protein applications across food and beverage categories. Through collaboration with growers and innovation in ingredient development, the company has helped expand the presence of pulses into products ranging from cereals and snacks to protein sodas and fortified beverages.
“If you've picked up a protein water or a high-protein cereal lately, there's a good chance PURIS had something to do with it,” said GPC President Vijay Iyengar during the ceremony, highlighting the company’s role in helping position pulses at the center of the growing global protein market.
GPC CEO Ryan Perkins accepts BITE’s Highly Commended distinction in the Sustainability Award category, recognizing the company’s work increasing bean consumption through behavioural science and foodservice partnerships across the United States.
In the Sustainability Award category, BITE (Building Impact Through Eaters) received a Highly Commended distinction for its work encouraging bean consumption through behavioural science and foodservice partnerships across the United States. Its pilot program across more than 20 foodservice sites reportedly increased bean consumption by 13% while contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions through shifts in menu choices.
Ardent Mills earned the Sustainability Award for its work linking chickpea research, regenerative agriculture and resilient farming systems.
The GPC Sustainability Award was presented to Ardent Mills for its work promoting chickpeas within sustainable agriculture and nutrition initiatives. The company was recognized for supporting food science research, collaborating with growers implementing regenerative agriculture practices, and strengthening sustainable chickpea production systems.
“Ardent Mills has made chickpeas a centrepiece of their sustainability story, and backed it up with action,” Iyengar said during the presentation.
The awards highlighted the growing diversity of innovation taking place across the pulse industry, from logistics and ingredient development to consumer behaviour and regenerative agriculture.
Pulses 26 / GPC Awards / PURIS / Ardent Mills / pulse industry innovation / sustainable agriculture.
Disclaimer: The opinions or views expressed in this publication are those of the authors or quoted persons. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Global Pulse Confederation or its members.
