At the recent International Food & Drink Expo (IFE) 2025 in London, Australia emerged as a focal point for culinary innovation and sustainability. Held from March 17-19 at ExCeL London, the event showcased an array of groundbreaking companies redefining the global food and beverage landscape. Among the highlights were mushroom-based proteins, eco-friendly gum, and premium honey products, all reflecting Australia's commitment to both health and environmental responsibility. MasterChef John Torode further elevated the region’s profile by emphasizing the importance of locality and heritage in Australia’s gastronomic scene. This report delves into some of the standout brands driving this transformative movement.

Australia's Fable Food is revolutionizing the concept of sustainable eating through its innovative use of mushrooms. By harnessing the dense fibers and umami-rich flavors of shiitake mushrooms, the company crafts versatile culinary proteins that cater to chefs and food enthusiasts alike. Founded by a team including chef Jim Fuller and mycologist Chris McLoghlin, Fable aims to create healthier, more sustainable options without compromising on taste or texture. Their Pulled Mushroom range exemplifies how natural ingredients can be transformed into delicious, nutritious alternatives, setting a new standard for plant-based cuisine.

Daily Shake offers another compelling example of Australia’s dedication to wellness. With a focus on inclusivity, their all-vegan and gluten-free line caters to diverse dietary needs while maintaining premium quality. Each flavor, ranging from Strawberry Cheesecake to Coconut Pudding, combines scientific nutrition with indulgent taste, making it easy for busy individuals to incorporate health-conscious choices into their daily routines. The brand’s sleek design and innovative approach highlight the growing demand for products that balance luxury and practicality.

Zest Element tackles food waste head-on by repurposing imperfect fruits into dried powders, citrus salts, and dehydrated slices. Through partnerships with farms and other establishments, the company rescues produce destined for landfill, transforming it into versatile ingredients for smoothies, baking, and cocktails. Their commitment extends beyond waste reduction; plans include implementing solar-powered dehydration systems to minimize environmental impact. As they expand internationally, Zest Element inspires mindful consumption and fosters sustainable practices globally.

The Udder Way addresses plastic waste in dairy supply chains with reusable LDPE containers. Certified by HACCP International and BSI, these high-quality vessels streamline operations, reduce costs, and align with businesses committed to sustainability. An accompanying app enables transparency in tracking and reporting sustainability efforts, reinforcing accountability. By minimizing single-use plastics, The Udder Way positions itself as a leader in eco-conscious solutions within the food industry.

Dhuwa Coffee bridges cultural divides through ethically sourced, expertly roasted blends. Owned by Indigenous Australians, the brand promotes social impact alongside exceptional coffee, achieving national distribution through partnerships like Woolworths. Dhuwa not only supports economic opportunities for First Nations communities but also champions mentorship and reconciliation, celebrating Australia’s rich heritage one cup at a time.

Naked Life leads the non-alcoholic beverage market with its botanically distilled cocktails. Offering sophisticated, low-sugar options, the brand appeals to those seeking celebratory drinks without alcohol content. With meticulous attention to detail, Naked Life ensures every sip delivers unparalleled flavor, positioning them as pioneers in reinventing social gatherings.

Honey for Life taps into Western Australia’s pristine forests to produce medicinal-grade honeys. These bioactive varieties, such as Manuka and Jarrah, boast raw, unprocessed qualities rich in enzymes and vitamins. Rigorous testing guarantees purity and efficacy, establishing Honey for Life as a trusted name in natural health solutions.

While not a startup, Austral Fisheries deserves recognition for its longstanding commitment to sustainable seafood. Operating over 50 years, the company prioritizes ocean stewardship through MSC-certified fisheries and carbon neutrality initiatives. Customers benefit from full traceability via OpenSC partnerships, ensuring confidence in the origin and quality of products like Glacier 51 Toothfish and Skull Island Tiger Prawns.

From mushroom innovations to sustainable fishing practices, the IFE 2025 demonstrated Australia’s prowess in shaping the future of food and drink. These brands exemplify how creativity, technology, and environmental consciousness can converge to redefine industries, leaving a lasting impression on global consumers and stakeholders alike.