Transforming Europe’s food system will require more than scientific breakthroughs alone. Europe has exceptional research capabilities and a strong innovation base, yet real-world impact depends on how effectively ideas are translated into practical solutions, scalable businesses and policy action. This need for strategic, structured collaboration was a central theme at Next Bite, where EPIC-SHIFT joined the conversation on protein diversification and the future of sustainable food systems.
In June 2026, EIT Food hosted the Next Bite Satellite Event on Biotechnology in Brussels, bringing together more than 200 representatives from European institutions, industry, start-ups, investors, research organisations, farming organisations and regulatory bodies to discuss the future of biotechnology in Europe.
As one of only three featured projects, next to FEASTS and TAURUS selected for a dedicated exhibition stand, EPIC-SHIFT had a strong presence throughout the Next Bite event, engaging stakeholders, contributing to discussions and showcasing its vision for the future of sustainable protein innovation. Project representatives actively participated in exchanges with policymakers, researchers, industry leaders and innovation organisations, raising awareness of the project’s work and fostering new connections across the European food system landscape.
The event provided an important opportunity to position EPIC-SHIFT within broader discussions on biotechnology, protein diversification and food system transformation. It also highlighted the strong alignment between the project’s holistic approach, which combines food systems thinking with multi-stakeholder engagement, and wider European efforts to accelerate innovation through collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Panel Discussion: Collaborative Innovation, Skills & Talent for Scale-up
EPIC-SHIFT was represented on the panel “Collaborative Innovation, Skills & Talent for Scale-up” by Maria Gomes Fernandes (New Harvest) and Miguel Roncoroni (Puratos). Together with experts from Imperial College London, VTT, the JRC and the University of Turin, they discussed how Europe can accelerate the transition from research to real-world application.
A key takeaway was the need for stronger collaboration between research and industry, with businesses playing a more active role in developing and scaling innovation. Panellists also highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary skills, combining science, engineering, regulation, entrepreneurship and consumer understanding to support the next generation of biotechnology innovation.
Key Takeaways from Next Bite
- Engagement with the Biotech Alliance Councils offers a promising pathway to extend the impact of EPIC-SHIFT results beyond the project’s duration.
- EPIC-SHIFT’s holistic approach, combining food systems thinking with multi-stakeholder engagement, closely aligns with the collaborative vision promoted by the Alliance.
- Discussions confirmed that Europe is at a pivotal moment in shaping its future food system. Evidence generated by projects such as EPIC-SHIFT can help inform strategic decisions that strengthen competitiveness while maintaining Europe’s high standards for safety, sustainability and consumer trust.
Looking Ahead
EPIC-SHIFT is actively exploring opportunities to share project findings and recommendations with the Biotech Alliance Councils, helping ensure that project knowledge contributes to ongoing discussions on biotechnology, protein diversification and the future of sustainable food systems in Europe.
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