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DRG4FOOD & FOODITY Final Conference 2025: A recipe for trust in Europe’s food future
[Brussels, May 28th, 2025] — How can we build a food system that citizens trust – one that protects both our health and our data? This question lies at the heart of the Final Conference of the EU-funded projects DRG4FOOD and FOODITY, taking place at La Tricoterie, Brussels, on 22–23 October 2025. For nearly three years, these pioneering projects have worked to reshape the digital future of Europe’s food systems. Now, they will unite policymakers, SMEs, NGOs, researchers, and food innovators for two days of knowledge sharing, debate, and celebration of data-driven innovation—placing citizen rights at the centre of the plate.
“Digital trust isn’t just a tech issue—it’s a food issue. Through DRG4FOOD and FOODITY, we’ve shown how data can empower citizens, not exploit them,” said Kai Hermsen, Coordinator of DRG4FOOD.
Conference highlights include:
Day 1 – Innovation Showcase: Introduction to the awarded projects of the DRG4FOOD and FOODITY open calls, presented during a “Tasting Session” led by project coordinators Kai Hermsen and Samuel Almeida.
Day 2 – Building Trust in Digital Food Systems: Expert discussions on the Digital Responsibility Goals, responsible data governance, and alignment with EU digital and food policies.
A collaborative menu for change
From food traceability and smart nutrition to data governance and sustainability, the conference will spotlight €3.9 million in EU-backed innovation. The projects, supported by tailored mentorship and industry linkages, are proof that digital transformation can be both inclusive and ethical.
“This isn’t just a wrap-up—it’s a launchpad. We want to hand the tools, networks and vision to those who will take digital food innovation to the next level” said Samuel Almeida, Coordinator of FOODITY.
Registration information
Participation is free of charge, but in-person attendance must be confirmed. Sessions will also be live streamed for remote attendees. Full registration details and the event programme can be found here.
About DGR4FOOD
The DRG4FOOD project, started in December 2022, intends to build trust in a data-driven food system, and change how we collect, analyse, and use data to develop more trustworthy, sustainable and efficient food systems. The programme works on a clear strategic roadmap (a new virtual food system), a set of technological enablers, demonstration of solutions, a structured funding programme with open calls, and measures to guide and support the food ecosystem of third-party beneficiaries, citizens and stakeholders.
This fund allocation is one part of DRG4FOOD’s comprehensive commitment, totaling €1.9 million across two Open Calls. One of the project’s central objectives is to equip food system innovators with the essential tools and resources to develop innovative solutions that promote trust, transparency, and responsibility in the food industry. These tools and resources include access to a toolbox of baseline technologies and the Digital Responsibility Goals (DRGs) playbook, designed to support innovators in creating responsible and innovative food system solutions.
About FOODITY
FOODITY aims to enable a thriving ecosystem of digital food and nutrition solutions that respect European citizens’ data sovereignty rights. Through a €2 million funding programme, it has supported 12 solutions showcasing data-driven innovation’s potential while ensuring users maintain complete control over their personal data.
