The future of foodtech is here: Foodtech Forum 2024 sets the stage for innovation and sustainability

Foodtech Forum 2024, held on November 12th at Slagthuset in Malmö, Sweden, brought together over 600 participants to explore the future of our food systems. Hosted by Foodtech Innovation Network, the event showcased groundbreaking ideas, technologies, and collaborations shaping tomorrow’s sustainable food systems.

Innovators redefining the future of foodtech

The event’s exhibition hall buzzed with energy as 34 Foodtech Innovation Network member companies presented their cutting-edge solutions. Attendees had the unique opportunity to not only see but also taste the future of food, engaging directly with innovators behind transformative products like sustainable proteins, and waste-reducing technologies.

“The Foodtech Forum is where ideas meet action. By bringing together pioneers, professionals, and visionaries, we accelerate the pace of change,” said Emelie Olsson, Project Manager at Foodtech Innovation Network.

Insights from foodtech leaders

The stage sessions featured visionary speakers who explored critical topics in foodtech, captivating the audience with their insights and forward-thinking strategies. Analisa Winther, a renowned expert on the future of food, moderated the event and delivered an urgent call to action, emphasizing the need for collective innovation, strategic collaboration, and a transformative shift in food habits to create lasting sustainability. Christine Gould, Founder and CEO of Thought For Food, discussed how scaling foodtech innovations can unlock trillions in value, fundamentally reshaping global food systems.

Johan Swahn, Ph.D., at The Taste Lab and TasteInsights offered a fascinating exploration into the science of taste, uncovering the powerful role flavour plays in driving consumer preferences, brand loyalty, and product success. Meanwhile, Axel Gruvaeus, Senior Analyst at Kairos Future, presented a compelling analysis of the modern foodie’s psyche, highlighting the tension between sustainability aspirations and the realities of everyday choices, while shedding light on the evolving values and behaviours shaping tomorrow’s food consumers.

Foodtech Forum Award 2024: Company of the Year

A highlight of the day was the announcement of the Foodtech Forum Award for ‘Company of the Year,’ presented to DiaPure, in proud collaboration with AFRY. DiaPure was recognized for its groundbreaking phosphorus-trapping technology, a game-changer in sustainable agriculture and industrial wastewater treatment. The award jury, which included Katrin Hedvall from AFRY, Daniel Skavén Ruben from FoodTech Weekly and Solvable Syndicate, Paul Archambeau from Kost Capital, and Fanny Sturén from Urban Deli, praised DiaPure for its scalability and market potential.

“DiaPure exemplifies the innovation and commitment needed to build a sustainable future,” said Katrin Hedvall, Business Unit Manager at AFRY.

Connecting a global community

Foodtech Forum 2024 proved to be more than an event; it was a movement. The day fostered countless connections, laying the groundwork for future collaborations and business opportunities. Attendees left inspired and equipped with new ideas and partnerships to tackle the pressing challenges in the food system.

As the doors closed, the sentiment was clear: the future of food is bright, and the journey to a more sustainable and innovative food system is well underway. Together, we create the food system of the future. Today.

Thank you to all Foodtech Innovation Network member companies who made this day possible: Oh Mungood, ARWA Foodtech, Saveggy, Glucanova, Cean Cravings, Gnista Spirits, Nandin Kimchi, Nothing FISHY, Hummusson , Mossagården, Simply No Waste, DiaPure, SHI – Svensk Hampaindustri, Seatrients, Mini Ferrum, Maisha Deli, Husmor Lisa, Angry Camel, OptiCept Technologies, Re:meat, Holisip, Stacky’s, Good Idea Drinks, MOOS Foods, Antonsson Holding, Naima , dSUM , Roots of Malmö, Lunar Food, Tempty Foods and LOW-KI.