On 14–15 April 2025, the city of Bari will host “Research Efforts and Impact So Far,” the mid-term meeting of OnFoods – the extended PNRR partnership focused on sustainability, safety and quality in food and nutrition.

With less than a year to go before the end of the project, the meeting marks a key moment to share scientific results achieved so far, explore future directions, and strengthen collaboration between universities, research centres, early-career researchers and businesses.

The event will take place at the Bari Chamber of Commerce and is organised by the University of Bari “Aldo Moro” in collaboration with the National Research Council (CNR) – Institute of Sciences of Food Production (ISPA).

Opening remarks will be delivered by the Rector of the University of Bari, Stefano Bronzini, together with Daniele Del Rio, Chair of the OnFoods Foundation Board, Maria De Angelis (University of Bari), Antonio Moretti (CNR), Marina Heinonen (University of Helsinki), Vincenzo Fogliano (Wageningen University), Fabrizio Cobis (Italian Ministry of University and Research), and Lucia Di Bisceglie (Bari Chamber of Commerce).

Over the two days, OnFoods’ seven working groups – known as Spokes – will present the outcomes of their ongoing activities in dialogue with international reviewers.

The programme will follow a thematic structure, covering topics such as global sustainability, nutritional quality, food safety, and policies for food system transition. Special sessions will be dedicated to young researchers involved in the project and activities funded through the Cascading Calls. Partner companies will take part in a roundtable discussion on the role of innovation and public–private collaboration. The meeting will close with an open session on future prospects and the strengthening of the Mentorship Programme – a core tool for supporting the training and development of OnFoods’ young talents.

“With less than a year to go until the end of the OnFoods project,” says Daniele Del Rio, “we can already see the value of a journey that has built a strong, effective team and a network of successful public–private partnerships. We’ve generated vital knowledge and tools to drive innovation in food research and sustainability. What makes this achievement even more meaningful is that we’ve helped launch the scientific careers of over 200 young researchers. Now we look ahead with renewed energy, ready to join forces with other national institutions to build a coordinated, synergistic, and one-of-a-kind entity – one that can lead the transition to a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable food system”.