Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – A team of students from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), comprising Muhammad Faris Khiar Calosa and Ridho Nur Alam, successfully secured a silver medal at the International Youth Summit 2024. The prestigious international essay competition took place on November 9-10, 2024, at Universiti Putera Malaysia, Malaysia, where hundreds of participants from various countries showcased their innovations across multiple categories.
The UGM Biology team competed in the Food category, presenting Boba Bean: An Innovative Instant Red Bean Beverage for Anemia Prevention Among Adolescents. This innovative idea captivated the international panel of judges through its creative approach, combining a science-based nutritional solution with current food trends popular among adolescents.
Through meticulous preparation and interdisciplinary collaboration with team members from the Faculties of Cultural Sciences, Engineering, and Pharmacy, the UGM team stood out among competitors, earning this prestigious recognition.
Through meticulous preparation and interdisciplinary collaboration with team members from the Faculties of Cultural Sciences, Engineering, and Pharmacy, the UGM team stood out among competitors, earning this prestigious recognition.
The Boba Bean offers an instant red bean-based beverage rich in plant-based iron and designed to appeal to younger generations who enjoy trendy beverages. By utilizing natural ingredients such as red beans, tapioca flour, and coconut sugar, this product provides a practical solution for increasing daily iron intake and preventing anemia, particularly among adolescent girls who face a high prevalence of this condition. Beyond its nutritional benefits, Boba Bean also excels in flavor and texture, aligning with the preferences of today’s youth.
This achievement highlights not only the research quality of UGM Biology students but also the ability of Indonesia’s younger generation to contribute meaningful solutions to global challenges through relevant and impactful innovations. Specifically, this project supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger, by offering a nutritious food alternative to prevent anemia, and SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being.