Across Europe, researchers are exploring how microbiomes could help address food system challenges, from improving soil and crop resilience to developing better plant-based foods, reducing food waste and supporting healthier, more sustainable diets.
On 1 October 2026, eight EU-funded projects from the Microbiomes4SustainableFoods Cluster will come together in Brussels to discuss how promising microbiome research could move closer to practical application across farms, food businesses and consumer choices and diets.
The event will explore microbiomes across the food system, including soils, crops, food production, fermentation and the human gut. Topics will include sustainable and resilient food production, food safety and shelf life, plant-based food innovation, nutrition and the policy environment needed to support microbiome-based solutions.
Two roundtable discussions will bring researchers together with policymakers and industry representatives to discuss what evidence is still needed, what barriers may affect wider uptake, and how European research and food policy could support the responsible development of microbiome-based approaches.
Alongside scientists from the eight EU-funded projects, contributors include:
- Giuseppina Luvara, European Commission, Directorate-General for Research and Innovation
- Guido Giudetti, European Commission, European Research Executive Agency
- Marco Candela, University of Bologna
- Susana Carvalho, University of Porto
- Sandrine Claus, founder of Starfish
Journalists covering EU food and research policy, sustainable food systems, plant-based foods and proteins, agrifood innovation, food technology, nutrition and health are invited to attend. Interviews can be arranged before or during the event.
Event title: Harnessing Microbiomes for a Sustainable Food System: From Farm to Fork and Beyond
Date: Thursday, 1 October 2026
Time: 09:00–18:00 CET
Location: BlankSpace Brussels, Rue d’Arlon 80, 1040 Brussels
Format: In-person, with hybrid participation available
Registration: Microbiomes for the Future of Food Systems
Agenda: Microbiomes for the Future of Food Systems · Brussels 2026