A keen learner who brings positive energy to challenges is the 2026 recipient of the Sanitarium Health Food Company’s Sid Cole Technical Excellence Scholarship.
Cooper Bawden, a new product development scientist, is excited to have been awarded the scholarship.
“It validates the effort I’ve made to go beyond my role and continually learn,” he said. “To be recognised by Sanitarium as someone who can contribute to its future research and innovation is really encouraging.”
The scholarship provides up to $10,000 for professional training and development, helping build technical capability across the business while supporting individual career growth.
Mr Bawden will use the scholarship to expand his expertise in a fast-growing area of food science: the use of enzymes in food and beverage innovation. It’s a field with potential for improving nutrition, digestibility and product quality.
“Enzymes act as natural catalysts in living organisms,” Mr Bawden explained. “A familiar example is lactose-free milk, where the lactase enzyme breaks lactose into simpler sugars, making it easier to digest. I’m excited by the possibilities of applying similar technologies to create nutritious, accessible food that genuinely supports health.”
Over the coming year, Mr Bawden will participate in university-based learning and hands-on training with enzyme manufacturers, potentially including overseas study. The scholarship is structured to ensure learning is shared and applied across the organisation.
“The understanding I gain will help me approach problems and projects from new perspectives,” he said. “It would be great to work with wider teams at Sanitarium to help solve challenges and suggest changes that help the business thrive.”
Reflecting on Mr Bawden’s selection, Paul Ginn, general manager innovation, said, “Cooper is a well‑deserving recipient this year, chosen for his dedication to learning and the positive energy he brings to every challenge. I’m excited to follow his journey and hear about the insights he gathers along the way.”
The scholarship recognises team members who demonstrate strong curiosity, a commitment to learning and a desire to apply their skills in ways that support Sanitarium’s mission and long‑term impact.
