FutureFoodS Autumn School 2025 / 5.12.2025

From 19 to 21 November 2025, the FutureFoodS Autumn School took place at the Biotechnical Faculty UL, in collaboration with the Jožef Stefan Institute. The three-day programme combined scientific lectures, practical insights, field visits, and collaborative project work.

Day 1: Organisers dr. Mojca Korošec, dr. Nataša Poklar Ulrih, and dr. Nives Ogrinc welcomed participants. The lectures addressed edible insects as sustainable protein sources, green extraction technologies, microbial degradation of natural polymers, and protein diversification. The day concluded with breakout discussions on circular and bio-based strategies in agri-food systems.

Day 2: Morning talks focused on European food-system transitions and insights from business angels. The central activity was the FutureFoodS Hackathon, where participants worked in teams on real-life sustainability challenges, supported by mentors including dr. Lidija Strojnik and dr. Marjeta Mencin. In the afternoon, participants visited the UL-BF micro-plant for insect bioconversion, followed by further hackathon work and an evening networking dinner.

Day 3: The final day began with a visit to the plant-based company Grashka at Center Rog. Participants then returned to present their hackathon projects, showcasing innovative and practical solutions for sustainable food systems. The programme concluded with a moderated round-table discussion featuring experts from government, academia, and industry, focusing on progress toward sustainable food systems and the interplay between systemic and individual actions.

Overall, the Autumn School fostered interdisciplinary collaboration, critical thinking, and innovation in shaping more sustainable food futures.