   The outstanding work “ISO-PAUSE: Soft Creamy Tempeh” from the Faculty of Agriculture at Naresuan University clinched the 2nd runner-up position at the ASEAN-ASSET FIN-TU Product Development Competition 2023. This remarkable achievement is a collaborative effort by students and Associate Professor Dr. Thipawan Thongsuk, the Head of the Department of Agro-Industry at the Faculty of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Environment, Naresuan University. The accolade was conferred in the General Public category during the competition held on 14 – 15 November 2023 at the prestigious Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.
   The ASEAN-ASSET FIN-TU Product Development Competition 2023 was a pivotal part of the international food security conference, ASEAN-ASSET 2023: Global Summit on The Future of Future Food, a groundbreaking event held for the first time in Asia. This summit served as a platform for the exchange of knowledge and the creation of awareness surrounding future food safety, industry collaborations for the future of food, and current and emerging trends in the food sector. The competition witnessed over 400 participants from around the globe, featuring 36 presentations. It provided a unique opportunity for students and entrepreneurs to showcase innovative food products that contribute to health benefits, promote food security, and ensure sustainability.
   The winning product, ISO-PAUSE, is a ready-to-eat tempeh in a soft cream form, rich in isoflavones. Isoflavones play a crucial role in replacing decreasing estrogen levels during menopause. One packet (25g) of ISO-PAUSE contains isoflavones equivalent to one glass of soybean milk or two blocks of tofu, along with a significant amount of calcium and vitamin D (50% Thai RDI). These essential nutrients contribute to bone strength, preventing osteoporosis. ISO-PAUSE also contains natural prebiotics and various easily absorbed nutrients, a result of the tempeh fermentation process.
   Designed as a product to balance hormones and fortify bones, ISO-PAUSE offers a natural alternative to hormonal drugs, calcium, and vitamin tablets. Available in yogurt and chocolate flavors, this product is tailored for menopausal women, the elderly, and health-conscious individuals.
