Europe must invest more in plant-based research and innovation to unlock the full potential of plant-based foods. This can only be achieved by bridging the gap between science and policymaking.
On 23 June, EAPF organised a roundtable, bringing together researchers, innovation experts, industry leaders and policymakers to discuss how Europe can accelerate plant-based research and innovation while overcoming existing bottlenecks.
In its publication, The Plant-Based Opportunity, EAPF recommended that the European Union, Member States and regions triple investment in plant-based research and innovation, mobilising €3 billion across 75 concrete projects by 2035. The roundtable discussion focused on how to translate this ambition into policy and ensure that the EU remains at the forefront of plant-based food innovation.
The roundtable brought together representatives of the European Commission, as well as experts from Cargill, Oatly, New Originals and FoodConNext Foundation. The discussion provided a valuable and constructive exchange aimed at bridging the gap between policymakers, experts and businesses.