Sustainable processing

Building a sustainable agri-food chain starts with rethinking every step of the process—from field to fork. Within this system, sustainable processing plays a vital role in transforming how we produce and consume food, contributing to the European Commission’s targets of reducing CO₂ emissions by 55% by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050. We focus on innovations such as less and milder refining, valorisation of side streams, and the development of net-zero products and processes, looking at entire value chains. These are powered by advanced tools like AI-based predictive modelling and fermentation technologies.

Our approach

At Next Food Collective, we accelerate the transition to a sustainable agro-food chain. Through our Future Proof Foods programme we will recognize and celebrate successful sustainable innovations. By spotlighting frontrunners and connecting insights from across the chain, we uncover common barriers such as technological limitations, regulatory hurdles, and unclear climate metrics. Together with producers, technology partners, and knowledge institutes, we work towards practical solutions for these barriers. By applying these solutions in their innovation projects, companies will speed up the transition to a more sustainable agro-food chain — one that works for producers, consumers, and the planet.

"A collective approach is key to tackling the challenges of sustainable processing and achieving Net Zero. By joining forces across the agri-food sector, we can reduce waste, share solutions, and accelerate progress toward a more sustainable food system. It’s through unity that we unlock the true potential of sustainable food systems."

Bert Jan Grootes
Theme Director Sustainable Processing

Current Projects

Project archive

> Synergia

Technology-4-Ecology based farming

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