In Celebration of Filipino Food Month with the theme “Pagkaing Sariling Atin, Mahalin at Pagyamanin,” the Central Luzon State University entry – the Nutribar, won 1st place on being the Most Innovative Product during the 2nd KADIWA Pop-Up Store (3-day retail Selling) Exhibit held at the Marquee Mall, Angeles City, Pampanga last April 12, 2023. The Nutribar outbests six other products from the different provinces in Region 3 that participated in the said event.

The Nutribar was developed during the pandemic to address the limited access to nutritious food due to travel restrictions and the partial potential to increase and enhance the nutrient value of rice. Most of its ingredients – red rice, malunggay, and saluyot, are locally produced and considered to be rich in protein, antioxidants, and phenolics. It is a healthy food option for breakfast, snacks, other meals, and during travel.

The development of this product, led by Ms. May Villaviza from the Crops Research and Development Center together with Dr. Maria Excelsis M. Orden Project Leader, Dr. Alma De Leon, and Dr. Judith Antonio, was funded by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) as well as CLSU.

After winning in the Region, the Nutribar will again be showcased at the 11th International Conference for Agriculture and Food to be held on August 14-17, 2023 in Burgas Bulgaria.

According to Ms. Villaviza, they are now open to investors for the possible commercialization of Nutribar.