A food systems approach in practice – Evaluation report SYSTEMIC

SYSTEMIC proposed the development of sustainable diets that incorporate novel protein sources such as algae, insects, and cultured meat. This approach was supported by case studies that assessed consumer acceptance of these alternative protein sources. The studies found that insect-based protein and algae-derived foods could serve as viable alternatives to traditional animal products, potentially reducing the environmental impact of food production.

More specifically the project:

• Constructed a climatic database representative of the national context (Italy) and assessed the impact of altered rainfall patters, availability of arable land due to desertification and rising sea levels.
• Proposed adaptive strategies and measures to ensure food nutrition security, e.g., proposing to replace ruminant meat with alternative protein-rich foods produced through low-energy, environmentally friendly processes, and developed bioactive-rich food products and assessed biodiversity to create crops with high nutritional value.
• Focused on innovating in food production and consumption by exploring the feasibility and sensory challenges associated with novel foods.
• Developed strategies for creating a sustainable, resilient, and nutritious food supply that integrates both land and sea resources.

The SYSTEMIC project was funded under the ERA-NET ERA-HDHL and was a joint effort between FACCE-JPI, JPI Oceans and HDHL. The project was part of the Food and Nutrition Security Knowledge Hub call and has contributed to research on food security, sustainable agriculture and effects of climate change. Due to the knowledge hub format, concrete outcomes on the topic were delivered including policy recommendations, peer reviewed publications, and other dissemination activities. Below the main take-aways from and access to the full evaluation report.

The SYSTEMIC project has provided information on environmentally sustainable agricultural practices of food production, including focusing on alternative proteins, such as insects and algae. The project actively promoted sustainable agricultural practices to reduce the environmental footprint of food production. This included advocating for the adoption of alternative proteins, such as insects and algae, which offer significant environmental advantages. Compared to traditional animal farming, these proteins require fewer natural resources like water and land and produce lower greenhouse gas emissions.

The SYSTEMIC project has contributed to research on climate change adaptation, food security, and sustainable agriculture, influencing academic discourse and future research directions. SYSTEMIC's evidence-based research has informed policymakers, encouraging the adoption of climate-smart agricultural policies at local, national, and international levels.

The SYSTEMIC project engaged a diverse group of stakeholders, including producers, agricultural experts, food industries, and consumer groups, to ensure the practical applicability of its findings. Through targeted workshops and webinars, the project disseminated research outcomes and gathered valuable feedback. These sessions focused on key areas such as sustainable farming practices and the adoption of alternative protein products, fostering a collaborative environment for addressing food system challenges.

Consumer resistance to sustainable diets can be addressed through participatory approaches such as focus groups and co-creation workshops. Improving the sensory appeal of alternative proteins and tailoring messaging to different demographics will further enhance acceptance. The industry can be more prepared for market shifts and adapting their food production and distribution systems towards more sustainable and nutritious food products.

Affordability and accessibility of sustainable food options should be prioritized by exploring cost-reduction strategies, scaling production technologies, and introducing subsidies or community-based programs for low-income populations.

While the project's innovations demonstrated significant potential, the project faced challenges in translating some of the concepts into actionable solutions within its timeframe. Barriers such as scalability, affordability, and the need for region-specific implementation strategies highlighted the importance of further efforts to integrate agronomic research and sustainable innovations into broader food production systems.

To conclude, SYSTEMIC was able to lay a solid groundwork for further advancements and applications in sustainable food systems.

More information is available on the SYSTEMIC website.