Delivering a sustainable diversification of protein production and consumption is a key and longstanding ambition of the EU. Yet, logistical, economic and societal challenges need to be addressed to underpin the sustainability and profitability of the sectors involved.
Ahead of the anticipated release of the EU’s Protein Plan, Horizon Europe projects GIANT LEAPS and VALPRO Path will deliver their project outcomes and shared insights through a unique joint final conference entitled, Protein Transition: GIANT LEAPS Ahead and VALPRO Paths to Follow, at Atelier des Tanneurs in Brussels on Thursday, 25 June.
The conference will open with remarks from Paul Webb, Head of Department for “Green Europe” Research, Executive Agency for Research (REA), Dr. Ewen Mullins, coordinator of VALPRO Path (Teagasc) and Dr. Paul Vos, coordinator of GIANT LEAPS (Wageningen University & Research).
What will be discussed
Key topics will include the main barriers and opportunities in scaling alternative proteins across Europe, alongside the latest technological innovations in food processing, fractionation, and by-product utilisation. Sessions will address sustainability assessment of alternative proteins, including environmental, economic, health, and safety dimensions, as well as policy pathways supporting Europe’s protein transition. In addition, the programme will explore research priorities and emerging opportunities across primary production, ingredient development, and consumer acceptance.
Speakers and expert contributions
The conference will feature leading voices from across Europe’s research, policy, and industry communities working on alternative proteins and sustainable food systems.
Technological and processing innovations will be presented by Prof. Mark Fenelon (Teagasc), Dr. Andre Brodkorb (Teagasc), and Dr. Emanuele Zannini (University College Cork), focusing on advances in food processing, fractionation, digestibility, and product development. Sustainability and systems perspectives will be explored by Dr. Birgir Örn Smárason (Matís), Dr. Tryfon Kekes (National Technical University of Athens), and Prof. Clare Mills (University of Surrey), covering integrated sustainability assessment, plant protein business opportunities, and the links between health, safety, and sustainability in dietary change. Policy and future pathways will be further addressed by Dr. Esther van Asselt (Wageningen University & Research), Dr. Richard Lynch (Teagasc), Prof. Maeve Henchion (Teagasc), and Prof. Dr. Hans Verhagen (Food Safety & Nutrition Consultancy) focusing on EU diets, just transition pathways, and policy briefs supporting Europe’s protein transition.
Transforming how Europe produces and consumes proteins requires a systems based approach to accelerate the transition to diverse protein supply chains with added value potential from producers to consumers. Together with leading experts from across Europe, the programme and poster sessions will provide a comprehensive overview of the latest research, innovation, industry and policy developments that collectively can shape the future of sustainable proteins in Europe.
Participation and Registration
Participation in the conference is free, but registration is required. Stakeholders are encouraged to register and share the invitation within their networks.
Register for the event, view the agenda, and meet the speakers, here: FINAL CONFERENCE.
