Dilmah Achieves Double Recognition at SIAL Paris 2026
Sri Lankan tea brand Dilmah has made headlines by securing two significant recognitions as it heads toward the upcoming SIAL Paris 2026, scheduled for October 17-21, 2026. The company proudly announces that three of its innovative products have been selected for the highly regarded SIAL Innovation showcase. Furthermore, Dilmah has been named one of the five global finalists in the prestigious SIAL For Change category, a new contest that honors sustainability and corporate social responsibility within the food industry.
Innovative Offerings Recognized
The selected products from Dilmah include:
- - Dilmah Sparkling Tea Collection: This range features delightful sparkling iced teas, falling under the consumer goods category.
- - Elevrie Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Tea Collection: Available in white, red, and rosé varieties, these beverages also belong to the consumer goods category.
- - Windsor Forest Luxury Tea Bags: This offering highlights a compostable cotton tea bag, representing the equipment and technology category.
Each of these products has been selected by an independent panel of international food industry experts, based on criteria such as originality, technical innovation, and sustainability efforts. The selected items will be showcased at the dedicated innovation space during the SIAL event.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Dilhan C. Fernando, the president of Dilmah, expressed his excitement over this recognition. He emphasized that the awards reflect a philosophy established by his father over four decades ago: that authentic innovation and genuine sustainability are intertwined. He further stated, "A business should exist to serve people and protect nature rather than merely generate profit."
Being recognized among only five large companies globally, out of 226 submissions, illustrates Dilmah's commitment to excellence across all its sectors. The recognition as a finalist in the SIAL For Change initiative acknowledges the model behind the MJF Charitable Foundation (established in 2002) and Dilmah Conservation (founded in 2007). These initiatives channel 15% of the company's pre-tax profits toward community well-being and environmental protection.
The SIAL For Change competition attracted 226 global submissions, which were narrowed down to 122 eligible entries. Of these, just five large companies and fifteen SMEs were selected as finalists. The winners of both contests will be announced during the official award ceremonies at SIAL Paris on October 17 and 18, 2026.
Looking Ahead
Dilmah’s achievements reinforce its commitment to social responsibility and sustainable practices. With its innovative products capturing global attention, the company aims to inspire change and set a standard for sustainability within the food industry.
As the SIAL Paris event approaches, tea lovers and industry stakeholders alike eagerly anticipate seeing how Dilmah will further innovate and impact the market, reflecting the balance between quality, sustainability, and community support.