EU Consultation “Food 2040”: Strategic Research Agenda for Europe’s Food Systems

The European Commission has launched the consultation on the new research and innovation agenda “Food 2040.” The objective is to define strategic priorities for research and innovation in food systems under the upcoming EU Framework Programme Horizon Europe 2028–2034 as well as the European Competitiveness Fund.

Until 13 March 2026 (12:00 CET), researchers, innovation networks, clusters, start-ups, technology providers, and industry representatives are invited to contribute: Food 2024 survey. Participation is anonymous. 

Research as a Driver of Food Systems Transformation

With “Food 2040,” the EU aims to leverage research and innovation as key instruments to make food systems more sustainable, resilient, and technologically competitive. The initiative builds on the existing “Food 2030” framework but places a stronger emphasis on strategic technology fields, scaling, and market deployment.

Key areas expected to shape future research funding include:

• Alternative proteins and novel food technologies (e.g. fermentation, cell-based processes)
• Digital and data-driven food systems
• Resilient, climate-neutral supply chains
• Circular economy and resource efficiency
• Microbiome research and personalised nutrition
• Innovation ecosystems and governance models for systemic transformation

The Commission underlines the importance of interdisciplinary research, mission-oriented approaches, and disruptive technologies.

Strategic Direction for Horizon Europe 2028–2034

The consultation represents a central step in preparing the next EU research framework. Under “Food 2030,” the EU invested approximately €770 million in more than 100 research and innovation projects, including the European partnership FutureFoodS.

With “Food 2040,” the research landscape is expected to align more strongly with competitiveness, technological leadership, and the translation of research into market-ready applications. For research institutions, universities, non-university institutes, and innovation clusters, the consultation provides early insight into upcoming funding priorities.