Food research connecting consumers and businesses at Food Matters Live
22 November 2018
The University of Reading is highlighting how its strong research connections between food, farming, environment and health are making a difference to food consumers and businesses this week.
The University is attending Food Matters Live 2018 at the ExCeL Centre in London, one of the largest food sector events in Europe. As well as speaking to hundreds of companies, members of the public and media, Reading academics are adding their expertise to the event’s series of talks about the future of food.
Professor Richard Bennett, Research Dean for Food at the University of Reading said:
“The University of Reading is a major food research university, with the connections, impact and facilities to improve the world’s food system. This year we’ve been focusing on the global importance of food waste and showcasing some of the ways that the University of Reading is getting to grips with the issue.
“With 88 million tonnes of food wasted in the UK each year costing the economy £17 billion, and with 4-5 million tonnes classed as avoidable waste, we are one of the most wasteful nations in Europe resulting in 7 million tonnes of waste per year. However, we have a long experience of working with regulators, consumers and businesses to help tackle food waste and we are pleased to have an opportunity to share what we’ve learned.”
Food waste was a focus for the University of Reading stand this year, with case studies from the University’s work with the European Institute of Innovation and Technology’s Food programme. Highlights include consumer tips on reducing food waste, and advice for businesses to tackle some of the challenges of waste in the food supply system.
In addition, projects to reduce the amount of saturated fat in milk, understand how nutrients from cocoa can help heart health, and develop a prebiotic to help gut health have been highlighted to the public and industry at the exhibition.