Home Blog Page 2360

Stéphanie Lynch-Habib appointed Managing Director of Covage, France’s third-largest fibre optic infrastructure provider for enterprises, serving the wholesale market

PARIS, Oct. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Altitude Group announced the appointment of Stéphanie Lynch-Habib as Managing Director of Covage, succeeding Aymeric de Cardes, effective 15 September 2025.

Covage, acquired by the Altitude Group in 2021, is the only French wholesale operator to offer a comprehensive range of connectivity solutions, from fibre (FTTO, FTTH, FTTE) to mobile (4G, 5G), on a network exclusively dedicated to the business market.

 

 

In recent years, under the leadership of its Managing Director Aymeric de Cardes, the company has completed its integration and invested heavily in the expansion, consolidation and digitalisation of its network to offer a better quality of service.

To continue this momentum, Covage is embarking on a new phase of its development and welcomes Stéphanie Lynch-Habib as its Managing Director.

With over 25 years of international experience, she built her career at Lucent Technologies and AT&T, where she held various management positions in finance, marketing, sales and strategy.

She then served as Chief Marketing Officer at Colt Technology Services, spearheading a marketing transformation and repositioning the company in the large enterprise market.

As Chief Marketing Officer of the GSMA, she restructured event management and completely transformed the marketing function, enabling the business to continue operating in a completely disrupted environment. More recently, she was the President of euNetworks, where she led operations and the go-to-market strategy during the group’s recapitalisation.

“I am delighted to join Covage, part of the Altitude Group, to lead this new phase of development alongside the teams. We have a unique capillarity across France to meet the connectivity needs of businesses of all sizes and to accelerate the digital development of regions,” said Stéphanie Lynch Habib.

Dorothée Lebarbier, Chairperson and CEO of the Altitude Group, added: “Stéphanie’s appointment comes at an important time in Covage’s history. After several years of consolidation, we are entering a new phase of growth in which her leadership, industry experience and development expertise will be key to achieving our goals. I wish her, and the Group’s Executive Committee, every success in her new role. We would also like to thank Aymeric de Cardes for his commitment and professionalism and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”

About the Altitude Group

Founded in 1990, Altitude is a family-owned group led by Dorothée Lebarbier, Chairperson and CEO. The 3rd largest fibre optic infrastructure operator in France, with uninterrupted growth since its creation, the Altitude Group, a fibre optic infrastructure operator and B2B telecoms expert, is a key player in the strategy to develop superfast broadband in France. With a team of 2,000 experts, the Altitude Group deploys an agile and efficient model. The Altitude Group is committed to delivering sustainable digital transformation for businesses and regions with strong brands:

Altitude Infra, Airmob, Covage, Linkt, Netwo, Phibee Télécom, Ubicité

About Covage

Covage is France’s 3rd-largest infrastructure operator in the business market. It is the only wholesale operator capable of offering the full range of fibre and 5G solutions exclusively dedicated to the business market. Over 200 operators rely on its networks to provide high-value-added, superfast connectivity solutions to businesses and public sites. The Covage network serves 150,000 end customers and covers 70% of French businesses with dedicated fibre (FTTO) and 75% with shared fibre (FTTH Pro). As a national operator, Covage relies on 380 employees and more than 20 branches to offer local services.

www.covage.com | X: @Covage_News | Covage LinkedIn

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2788405/Altitude_Logo.jpg

Press Contact:
covage@lanouvelle-agence.com 

S.PELLEGRINO YOUNG CHEF ACADEMY ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS OF THE COLLATERAL AWARDS AHEAD OF THE GRAND FINALE 2024-25

MILAN, Oct. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy today unveiled the global winners of its three prestigious collateral awards, a significant milestone leading up to the Grand Finale of the 2024-25 Competition. These talented chefs, representing diverse regions, have distinguished themselves through an extensive selection process that began with local competitions across 15 regions worldwide.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:
https://www.multivu.com/s_pellegrino/9358151-en-young-chef-academy-announce-winners-collateral-awards-ahead-grand-finale-2024-25  

Chef Zanté Neethling (Africa, Middle East & South Asia) receives the S.Pellegrino Social Responsibility Award, chef Noah Wynants (North Europe) is named winner of the Acqua Panna Connection in Gastronomy Award and chef Nicolás A. López (USA) takes home the Fine Dining Lovers Food for Thought Award.

Each award recognises a young chef whose work goes beyond culinary excellence to reflect deeper values of sustainability, cultural connection and personal expression. As the international culinary community looks ahead to the Grand Finale of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2024-25, set to take place in Milan on 28-29 October, these collateral awards highlight the multifaceted talent emerging in the global culinary landscape.

The S.Pellegrino Social Responsibility Award, presented to South African chef Zanté Neethling, celebrates a dish that best expresses the principle of social responsibility. The award acknowledges a chef’s commitment to responsible practices, ethical sourcing, and a positive impact on their community, and is voted for by The Sustainable Restaurant Association.

Neethling’s dish, Tribute to the Khoi-Khoin Taras, was praised for its integration of indigenous knowledge. Currently Executive Sous Chef at Beyond in Cape Town, Neethling has established herself as a strong voice for regenerative practices and biodiversity in modern gastronomy.

“This recognition is deeply personal and significant to me,” said Neethling. “Sustainability isn’t just a trend, it’s a responsibility to regenerate, preserve and pass on the knowledge that connects us to nature and to each other.”

Juliane Caillouette Noble, Managing Director of The Sustainable Restaurant Association, noted: “Zanté’s signature dish is not only a carefully sourced tribute to South Africa’s ancestral roots, but also a roadmap for how chefs can lead in building a more ethical and equitable food system.”

Chef Noah Wynants of the Netherlands has been named winner of the Acqua Panna Connection in Gastronomy Award. This prize, selected by the competition’s mentors, celebrates the young chef whose signature dish best reflects harmony between tradition and innovation. Wynants impressed with his plant-based take on a global classic, Dutch ‘Rendang’, which reinterprets a traditionally meat-based dish using local fruits and vegetables.

“With this dish, I want to show that worldly flavours can be achieved with products from our own country or region,” Wynants said. “This dish is entirely based on vegetables and fruits and contains no animal products. By doing this, we challenge ourselves and demonstrate that the same flavours can be achieved without using animal ingredients.”

Mentors from the competition commended Wynants for a dish that demonstrates how sustainable sourcing and cultural storytelling can come together in a refined and contemporary expression of gastronomy.

Chef Nicolás A. Lopez of the United States has been awarded the Fine Dining Lovers Food for Thought Award, promoted by Fine Dining Lovers. This is the only award in the competition decided by public vote and recognises the young chef whose dish best expresses their personal beliefs and values. Lopez was selected from 15 regional finalists for his ability to use his dish, Pork with Hints of the Sea, to communicate a compelling narrative and emotional resonance that connected with audiences worldwide.

“This dish reflects my journey, from local pubs to fine dining, and the lessons passed down by the chefs who inspired me.” Lopez said. “I pushed myself to use unfamiliar ingredients and techniques, while embracing a sustainable approach that minimises waste and honours every element on the plate.”

The three awards reflect the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy’s ongoing commitment to supporting young culinary talent who are not only skilled professionals, but also ambassadors of change, sustainability and cultural dialogue. The winners will be formally awarded at the Grand Finale, where the overall S.Pellegrino Young Chef 2024-25 will be announced in front of a Grand Jury consisting of seven internationally recognised chefs.

About S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy

Gastronomy has the potential to transform society, shaping a more inclusive, sustainable future, but it requires talent. That’s why S.Pellegrino has created S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, a platform to attract, connect and nurture the next generation of culinary talents, empowering them through education, mentoring and experience opportunities, as well as through the renowned global competition.

The Academy opens its doors to members from over 70 different countries, ensuring that talent is not constrained by geography, ethnicity or gender. This is a place where passionate young chefs interact with the most influential players in global gastronomy, and where together they cultivate an inspiring culinary community.

To discover more please visit: https://www.sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com/

About S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna

S.Pellegrino, Acqua Panna and Sanpellegrino Italian Sparkling Drinks are international trademarks of Sanpellegrino S.p.A., which is based in Milan, Italy. Distributed in over 150 countries through branches and distributors on all five continents, these products represent quality, excellence by virtue of their origins and perfectly interpret Italian style worldwide as a synthesis of pleasure, health and well-being. Sanpellegrino, with its iconic products and a history of over 120 years is the leading company in Italy in the non-alcoholic beverage sector, offering a wide range of mineral waters, aperitifs, and soft drinks.

Sanpellegrino has always been committed to enhancing this primary good for the planet and works responsibly and passionately to ensure that this resource has a secure future.

L-R: Zanté Neethling, Noah Wynants & Nicolás A. López
L-R: Zanté Neethling, Noah Wynants & Nicolás A. López

 

 

Olympus and W. L. Gore & Associates Enter into International Distribution Agreement to Expand the Olympus EndoTherapy Portfolio

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., and HAMBURG, Germany, Oct. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Olympus Corporation, a global MedTech company committed to making people’s lives healthier, safer and more fulfilling, has entered into an international distribution agreement with the medical products business of U.S.-based W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. (hereinafter Gore), a global materials science company that develops innovative products across diverse industries.

GORE® VIABIL® Biliary Endoprosthesis
GORE® VIABIL® Biliary Endoprosthesis

The agreement allows Olympus to become the exclusive international distributor and have distribution rights of the GORE® VIABIL® Biliary Endoprosthesis for endoscopic placement. Olympus will begin commercialization efforts over the coming months starting in Europe and phasing in other countries over time. The addition of the GORE® VIABIL® Biliary Endoprosthesis for endoscopic placement in the Olympus hepatopancreatobiliary (HBP) portfolio will enable Olympus to expand its global presence in the rapidly growing gastrointestinal (GI) metal stent market.

Gore and Olympus bring together talent and technology, and this agreement presents opportunities to elevate the standard of care, as both companies share a history of delivering innovative interventional therapeutic products to improve outcomes for patients. With the addition of the GORE® VIABIL® Biliary Endoprosthesis for endoscopic placement to its existing portfolio of stents designed for the biliary tree, Olympus offers healthcare professionals and their patients a broad range of GI devices.

The GORE® VIABIL® Biliary Endoprosthesis for endoscopic placement is a fully covered self-expanding metal stent offering a differentiated alternative to relieve symptoms associated with biliary strictures.* An easy-to-use delivery system and non-foreshortening† design enables accurate deployment positioning. The GORE® VIABIL® Biliary Endoprosthesis for endoscopic placement features a nonporous ePTFE/FEP (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene/fluorinated ethylene propylene) lining that creates a strong, durable barrier, providing the advantage of a covered stent in the prevention of tumor ingrowth, without increasing the migration rate that is typically seen for covered stents.1,2,3,4 

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Gore, a global leader in innovative technologies. The VIABIL stent is a critical device for GI patient care, and this agreement will complement our industry leading ERCP portfolio,” said Mike Callaghan, Global SVP/General Manager EndoTherapy for Olympus. “Olympus is committed to helping healthcare organizations and professionals deliver high quality care for their patients, and the relationship with Gore is an important step toward achieving that goal.”

“Gore is pleased to partner with Olympus. We strongly believe the demonstrated commercial prowess of Olympus’ EndoTherapy team will pair nicely with Gore’s medical device innovation expertise to better serve patients with unique solutions for many years to come,” said Jake Goble, Cardiac and Surgical Solutions Business Leader for Gore.

* Regional differences exist in intended use. Always consult the Instructions for Use for complete information on indications, contraindications, and relevant safety information in your region.

† If deployed as instructed, the endoprosthesis will not appreciably foreshorten. 

1. Brown MA. Biliary Fully Covered Metal Stents: Systematic Review of the Clinical Literature. W. L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, AZ; 2019. [Work plan]. WP111272. Attachment 1: Literature Appraisal for Viabil, Attachment 2: Literature Appraisal for Other Fully Covered Biliary Stents (FCBS), Attachment 3: Migration Rate Comparison.

2. Guzmán-Calderón GE, Chirinos J, Díaz-Arocutipa C, et al. Covered Versus Uncovered Metal Stents for the Drainage of the Malignant Distal Biliary Obstruction With ERCP: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology 2025;59(3):276-284.

3. Krokidis M, Fanelli F, Orgera G, et al. Percutaneous treatment of malignant jaundice due to extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: covered Viabil stent versus uncovered Wallstents. Cardiovascular & Interventional Radiology 2010;33(1):97-106.

4. Krokidis M, Fanelli F, Orgera G, et al. Percutaneous palliation of pancreatic head cancer: randomized comparison of ePTFE/FEP-covered versus uncovered nitinol biliary stents. Cardiovascular & Interventional Radiology 2011;34(2):352-361. 

About Olympus

At Olympus, we are committed to Our Purpose of making people’s lives healthier, safer and more fulfilling. As a global medical technology company, we partner with healthcare professionals to provide innovative solutions and services for early detection, diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment, aiming to improve patient outcomes by elevating the standard of care in targeted disease states. For more than 100 years, Olympus has pursued a goal of contributing to society by producing products designed with the purpose of delivering optimal outcomes for its customers around the world. For more information, visit olympus-global.com and follow our global X account: @Olympus_Corp. 

About Gore

W. L. Gore & Associates is a global materials science company dedicated to transforming industries and improving lives. Since 1958, Gore has solved complex technical challenges in demanding environments — from outer space to the world’s highest peaks to the inner workings of the human body. With approximately 13,000 associates and a strong, team-oriented culture, Gore generates annual revenues of $5 billion. For more information, visit gore.com.

 

Rising HIV Infections Among Youth in First Half of 2025 Highlight Ongoing Health Challenge

Over 1,100 new HIV cases were reported in Laos in the first half of 2025, with most infections among youth, highlighting ongoing public health challenges and the need for greater awareness.

More than 1,100 people in Laos were newly infected with HIV in the first half of 2025 as the disease continues to quietly affect communities across the country, especially among the young.

According to the Center for HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections (CHAS), the number of new cases remains high despite ongoing efforts to expand testing and treatment. 

Between January and June, nearly 200 people were also diagnosed with AIDS, and over 90 people died from HIV-related illnesses.

Since the first recorded case in 1990, HIV has steadily spread throughout Laos. Today, the total number of reported infections has reached nearly 24,000, with over 6,000 deaths. The infection rate also continues to climb slowly each year.

Young people aged 15 to 24 are now the most affected group. In 2023, they accounted for more than 80 percent of new HIV cases, a worrying trend that health officials are watching closely.

While the government has increased the number of testing and treatment centers, many people still avoid seeking help due to fear or misunderstanding. Treatment is available in all 18 provinces, and antiretroviral therapy (ART) sites have been set up in key locations to provide long-term care for those living with HIV.

HIV attacks the immune system and, if left untreated, can progress to AIDS, the most severe stage of the infection. With early testing and access to medication, however, people can live full and healthy lives.

Health authorities continue to stress the importance of awareness, regular testing, and reducing stigma, especially among the younger generation.

FDA Lifts Clinical Hold on NUZ-001

Highlights:

  • U.S. FDA lifts the Clinical Hold on NUZ‑001, Neurizon®’s lead investigational therapy for ALS
  • Clears the way for entry into the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial expected to commence in Q4 CY2025
  • IND supported by robust preclinical safety data and comprehensive manufacturing and quality information from the previously signed Elanco licensing agreement
  • Expedites NUZ-001 as a platform molecule with pipeline expansion potential
  • Positions Neurizon for accelerated regulatory pathways and future partnering opportunities

MELBOURNE, Australia, Oct. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Neurizon Therapeutics Limited (ASX: NUZ & NUZOA) (“Neurizon” or “the Company”), a clinical-stage biotech company dedicated to advancing innovative treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, is pleased to announce that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has lifted the clinical hold on its lead investigational drug, NUZ‑001. This decision marks a pivotal regulatory milestone for Neurizon and the ALS community, clearing the way for Phase 2/3 development of NUZ-001 as part of the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial, expected to commence Q4 CY2025.

Dr Michael Thurn, Managing Director and CEO, commented: “The FDA’s clearance of our IND application marks a significant milestone in our mission to bring NUZ-001 closer to patients living with ALS. This achievement reflects both our unwavering commitment to rigorous scientific and clinical development and the tireless dedication of our team.

We are deeply grateful to the key opinion leaders (KOLs) and patient advocacy groups whose steadfast support and engagement were instrumental in shaping and advancing this program. Their efforts in raising awareness and lobbying for the urgent needs of the ALS community have been invaluable in helping us reach this point.

We are now partnering with the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial team to take the next critical steps in advancing NUZ-001. Supported by our compelling TDP-43 preclinical data and encouraging survival outcomes from the Open-Label Extension (OLE) study in ALS patients, we believe NUZ-001 has the potential to meaningfully slow the progression of this devastating disease.”

Opening an IND for a platform molecule establishes a regulatory foundation that not only accelerates the development of the first candidate but also streamlines future programs. By creating a validated framework for safety, manufacturing, and clinical design, it reduces regulatory risk, shortens timelines, and enables efficient expansion into new indications.

In this case, the IND is further strengthened by the robust and comprehensive package of preclinical safety data and the detailed manufacturing and quality information secured through our licensing agreement with Elanco. These resources enhance confidence in the platform’s readiness for clinical development and reinforce its potential as a therapeutic platform with broad applicability, offering both strategic flexibility and long-term commercial value.

Next Steps:

With IND now active, Neurizon anticipates Mass General Hospital (MGH) filing a protocol amendment to their IND for the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial to incorporate our specific protocol regimen early in the coming weeks. Neurizon expects to initiate patient enrollment in the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial in Q4 CY2025.

Together, these milestones advance Neurizon’s mission to accelerate patient access to innovative therapies, create long-term value for shareholders, and establish NUZ-001 as a potential effective treatment for ALS.

This announcement has been authorized for release by the Board of Neurizon Therapeutics Limited.

About Neurizon Therapeutics Limited

Neurizon Therapeutics Limited (ASX: NUZ) is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to advancing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Neurizon is developing its lead drug candidate, NUZ-001, for the treatment of ALS, which is the most common form of motor neurone disease.  Neurizon’s strategy is to accelerate access to effective ALS treatments for patients while exploring the potential of NUZ-001 for broader neurodegenerative applications. Through international collaborations and rigorous clinical programs, Neurizon is dedicated to creating new horizons for patients and families impacted by complex neural disorders.  NUZ-001 is an investigational product and is not approved for commercial use in any jurisdiction.

Neurizon® is a registered trademark of Neurizon Therapeutics Limited

HTX DAO and TRON Ignite TOKEN2049 Afterparty, Ushering Web3 into a “Boundless” New Era

PANAMA CITY, Oct. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On October 2, the TOKEN2049 Afterparty co-hosted by HTX DAO and TRON wrapped up in Singapore. Themed “Break Beyond Boundaries”, the event gathered  global Web3 investors, developers, project teams, and the crypto community to witness a historic moment of transcending boundaries and connecting the future.

The Afterparty received strong support from numerous renowned ecosystem partners, including SunPerp, $TRUMP, PePeonTron, MetaMask, Arkham, LayerZero, SunPump, JUST, APENFT, BitTorrent, and WINkLink. This collaboration created a cross-sector exchange platform that sparked deep connections and innovative synergies within the global crypto community.

At the center of the venue, a striking astronaut installation symbolized how HTX DAO and TRON are steering Web3 into a new "boundless" era.
At the center of the venue, a striking astronaut installation symbolized how HTX DAO and TRON are steering Web3 into a new “boundless” era.

Immersive Space Experience Stirs the Blood

That evening, the Afterparty transformed into a futuristic interstellar journey. At the entrance, Justin Sun, Founder of TRON, Core Builder of HTX DAO, and Advisor to HTX, greeted guests with a futuristic voice message, instantly immersing the audience in a “starship voyage” atmosphere. Inside the venue, a giant astronaut balloon hovered overhead, as stage aesthetics merged with spectacular lighting effects, making every guest feel as if they were embarking on a cosmic expedition into the world of Web3.

The interactive zone became a creative playground for guests: AI-generated personalized films allowed participants to relive the breathtaking view of “gazing at Earth from a space capsule”. Five immersive photo templates—NASDAQ Listing, Forbes Magazine Cover, Infinite Cosmos, Avant-Garde Banana Art, and TRON Ecosystem—ensured every attendee left with unique memories and a sense of honor.

In the interactive zone, guests took immersive AI-augmented selfies together with Justin.
In the interactive zone, guests took immersive AI-augmented selfies together with Justin.

The Stirring Moment: Honor Meets Surprise

Amid the vibrant atmosphere, Justin Sun made a surprise appearance to present awards to the top three winners of the Miss HTX Season 3 global contest, celebrating the rising influence of women in crypto. In addition, $TRUMP specially introduced “The $TRUMP Innovator Award” to honor the spirit of crypto innovation, inspiring the global community to venture into an even broader future.

Justin Sun presented the award to the winners of the Miss HTX on site.
Justin Sun presented the award to the winners of the Miss HTX on site.

Beyond the climax, a surprise finale stole the show. Musician RasTruck performed the live debut of a brand-new song created specially for HTX’s 12th anniversary. This milestone composition was not only a tribute to HTX’s twelve years of growth but also a passionate call to the future journey of crypto.

HTX DAO & HTX Ventures at TOKEN2049

It is worth noting that during TOKEN2049, HTX DAO & HTX Ventures made a high-profile appearance as Gold Sponsors, showcasing DAO governance innovations and global ecosystem strategies. Their booth attracted numerous Web3 investors and developers to exchange ideas with each other. At the same time, futuristic robot cosplayers and immersive interactive activities offered guests unprecedentedly enjoyable experiences, deeply integrating innovative technology with community ecosystems and becoming a major highlight of the summit.

At the booth, futuristic robot cosplayers and immersive interactive activities delivered guests an unprecedentedly enjoyable experience.
At the booth, futuristic robot cosplayers and immersive interactive activities delivered guests an unprecedentedly enjoyable experience.

From the application of AI technology to immersive space experiences, from the celebration of women’s empowerment to tributes to innovators, the successful conclusion of the TOKEN2049 Afterparty was a powerful testament to the Web3 spirit. It vividly demonstrated the commitment and practice of HTX DAO and TRON in fostering deep connectivity and innovation across the Web3 ecosystem. More importantly, it not only strengthened global community cohesion but also marked how the combined ecosystem power of HTX DAO and TRON, with its unparalleled speed and influence, is propelling the global crypto wave into a more expansive, more collaborative “boundless” new era.

About HTX DAO

As a multi-chain deployed decentralized autonomous organization (DAO), HTX DAO demonstrates an innovative governance approach. Unlike traditional corporate structures, it adopts a decentralized governance structure composed of a diversified group, jointly committed to the success of this organization. This unique ecosystem advocates openness and encourages all DAO participants to propose ideas that can promote the development of HTX DAO.

“Happiness from Europe” Launches in Hong Kong


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 October 2025 – A new culinary chapter is beginning in Hong Kong, as the “Happiness from Europe” campaign officially launches its three-year initiative. Co-funded by the European Union, this campaign proudly introduces Grana Padano PDO – one of Europe’s most iconic cheeses – to consumers in Hong Kong.

Enjoy “Happiness from Europe” Everyday

A recent campaign highlight was the sponsorship of a culinary competition aimed at inspiring consumers to explore the versatility and richness of Grana Padano PDO. Through combining innovation and tradition, the contest offered chefs a platform to showcase their creativity using one of Europe’s finest ingredients.

"Happiness from Europe" Launches in Hong Kong

The History of Grana Padano PDO

Created by Benedictine monks around 1135 as a way to preserve surplus milk, Grana Padano PDO is renowned for its hard and granular texture, nutty and savoury flavour. It possesses unique nutritional features such as quality proteins, vitamins and mineral salts, especially calcium. It is lactose free due to the characteristics of the production method and the long aging process.

Made from partially skimmed raw milk, the production process includes natural cream separation, curdling with whey starter and calf rennet, cooking, shaping, brining for 23 days, and then aging for a minimum of 9 months, with some cheese wheels maturing for more than 24 months to develop a richer, more complex flavour. Each wheel is rigorously inspected for aroma, texture, and appearance – only those that meet the highest standards are fire-branded with the official Grana Padano PDO mark, a symbol of authenticity and excellence.

Since 1954, the Consorzio Tutela Grana Padano, a non-profit organization, oversees and promotes the product globally. The consortium also ensures that every wheel complies with the strict rules of the Production Specifications. Grana Padano was granted its PDO status in 1996. This entails the products being made exclusively within a specific region using traditional methods, while also supporting the artisans who produce it today. It also guarantees consumers of the product’s authenticity against possible imitations.

Showcasing Local Culinary Talent

As part of the ongoing “Happiness from Europe” campaign, a Grana Padano PDO culinary competition took place throughout September. The competition was organized by Hong Kong Chefs Association – a non-profit organization whose many aims include supporting major culinary-based events in Hong Kong and sharing professional knowledge and skills through international culinary competitions.

Open to chefs across Hong Kong, this competition invited participants to create their most delicious dish using one or more of the three varieties of Grana Padano PDO: aged for 9 months, 16 months, or 22 months (Riserva).

Participants were encouraged to push culinary boundaries and reimagine how Grana Padano PDO can be featured in modern and trendy dishes. Entries were submitted by 15 September 2025, and a panel of judges reviewed the submissions based on a set of strict criteria.

The top five finalists were announced by 20 September 2025, and invited to compete in a live, final cook-off on 30 September 2025 at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s School of Hotel & Tourism Management. At this exciting event, each chef prepared their dish in front of judges, and exclusive prizes and gift packs were awarded to the winners.

Enjoy “Happiness from Europe” Everyday

The “Happiness from Europe” campaign invites Hong Kong’s food lovers to discover the many ways Grana Padano PDO can enhance everyday meals and gourmet dishes alike. Whether shaved over fresh salads, stirred into creamy risottos, or paired with fruits, nuts, and wine, Grana Padano PDO offers a taste of European authenticity in every bite.

Interested consumers can also check out the campaign’s website www.happinessfromeu.com and social media accounts – Instagram and Facebook – for the latest news and updates.

Ciao! Buon appetito everyone!​

IMG 7104

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or of the granting authority. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Hashtag: #HappinessfromEurope

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Binance Donates $150,000 to Alkhidmat Foundation to Support Flood Relief Efforts in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, Oct. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Responding to the devastating floods of September, which severely affected Khyber Pakhtunkwa and Punjab, Binance Charity, the philanthropic arm of global blockchain company, Binance, is donating $150,000 to Alkhidmat Foundation in Pakistan to support relief efforts in the region.

Binance Donates $150,000 to Alkhidmat Foundation to support flood relief efforts in Pakistan
Binance Donates $150,000 to Alkhidmat Foundation to support flood relief efforts in Pakistan

Binance Charity’s donation will be directed towards financial aid for food, hygiene kits, and clean water, along with in-kind aid for tents, tarpaulins, and dignity kits, providing much needed assistance and support. 

Humza Khan, Operations, MENA at Binance, said, “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the devastating floods. In times like these, it is crucial that communities and organizations come together to support those most in need. By working with Alkhidmat Foundation, we hope our contribution will provide urgent relief on the ground and help families begin the long journey of rebuilding and recovering.”

Shoaib Hashmi, Head of PR, Alkhidmat Foundation, commented, “We would like to convey our gratitude to Binance, for their support at such a critical time. The funds will allow us to deliver relief, from shelter and clean water to food, for families who have lost so much in the floods. Partnerships like this ensure we can respond quickly and effectively to help the communities rebuild their lives. The solidarity and sense of responsibility shown by companies like Binance inspires us to continue our mission. Their support is a reminder that together we can bring relief, hope, and resilience to communities who need it most.”

Bilal Bin Saqib, Chairman of Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA), added, “These floods have brought inconceivable hardship to many communities in Pakistan. As we stand with those affected, we also embrace new tools that can deliver help faster and with greater accountability. Crypto is paving the way for technology being used as a force for humanity in times of its greatest need.”

In times of crisis, every hour matters. Crypto allows funds to move swiftly and transparently to support those most affected, without being slow or diluted along the way. It illustrates how digital assets can get relief to where it’s needed – in good time, securely, and efficiently. 

Alkhidmat Foundation also has an open fundraiser through the following donation address for anyone wishing to provide support to the affected communities. 

About Binance Charity

Binance Charity is a leading philanthropic organization that leverages blockchain technology to provide transparent, efficient, and timely assistance during times of crisis. By harnessing the power of cryptocurrencies and Web3 solutions, Binance Charity aims to bridge the gap between those in need and the resources required to rebuild lives and communities. With a strong commitment to global humanitarian causes, Binance Charity continues to spearhead innovative approaches to drive positive change worldwide.