Chula Students Win TED Youth Startup Grant

Young innovators from Chulalongkorn University are transforming agricultural waste into pet health solutions, turning discarded quail eggshells into a dental care product for cats while earning support from Thailand’s next-generation startup funders.

The team of fourth-year students from the university’s Faculty of Integrated Agriculture, known as Kissy Meow—Kansinee Thaweesuprathan, Krirkkanok Terawanich, Khwanchanok Ritthitid, Saad Hayimad, and Varanya Panichnava—has been awarded a 150,000 baht grant from the TED Youth Startup Fund–IDEATION Program by CU Innovation Hub. Their innovation, “Oral Care Gummy for Cats,” repurposes agricultural waste into a functional product for both farmers and pet owners.

The idea addresses a common challenge. Cats often resist toothbrushing, leaving owners with limited options to manage oral health. In response, the team developed a chewable jelly designed to reach between teeth and help reduce plaque buildup.

The product uses bio-calcium derived from quail eggshells, a material largely unused in commercial products. It is combined with papain from papaya, which helps break down protein-based plaque, and peppermint leaf extracts, known for their antibacterial properties and ability to reduce odor. Together, these ingredients reflect a blend of natural resources and scientific design.

What gives the product its edge is a delivery system called “Triple Encapsulation.” The technology allows the active ingredients to be released gradually, coating the teeth over time rather than all at once. It is designed to work with the natural chewing behavior of animals.

Krirkkanok said the innovation responds to the growing pet care market, particularly the rising number of cat owners. The market is expanding by approximately 15% per year, creating opportunities for pet health products. 

She added that the product stands out for its innovative features, including the use of encapsulation technology to enhance ingredient effectiveness and the selection of bio-calcium from quail eggshells as a primary raw material—a first for this type of product. In addition to improving product performance, it adds value to agricultural waste and creates income opportunities for farmers.

With funding secured, the team plans to develop prototypes with researchers and manufacturers and conduct user testing. One challenge will be gaining acceptance from cats, which are known for their selective tastes. The team also plans to expand distribution channels and seek further funding as it moves toward commercialization.

For more information, please visit:

Faculty of Integrated Agriculture, Chulalongkorn University

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/CU.iAgri

Website: https://www.cusar.chula.ac.th/

CU Innovation Hub

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/cuihub

Website: https://cuihub.chula.ac.th/

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/299635/