Food processing, hUman health and Sustainable food systEms (FUSE) NETWORK
Food processing, hUman health and Sustainable food systEms (FUSE) NETWORK
Abstract
The growing debate about ultra-processed foods has raised important questions about the role of food processing in health and sustainability, but the evidence and opinions remain fragmented and often divided. To help bridge these gaps, the FUSE Network aims to establish a European multi-stakeholder network and knowledge hub that advances dialogue, integrates diverse sources of knowledge, and supports action on the links between food processing, human health, and sustainability. The project will build a European Community of Practice, the FUSE Network, led by researchers at all career stages, while bringing policymakers, industry, and civil society into the network as active members to foster dialogue, collaboration, and shared learning The project will adopt an integrated and iterative approach, whereby network-building activities and the evidence-consolidation and translation activities continuously inform and reinforce one another. Following the initial establishment of the FUSE Network, members will identify and prioritise thematic areas, synthesise existing evidence from different disciplines, assess the implications of food processing for health, sustainability, resilience, and equity, and identify critical evidence gaps. Through dialogues and collaboration, FUSE will develop an open evidence database, evidence-informed policy guidance, and a shared strategic research agenda. By establishing a lasting Community of Practice and embedding it within existing European initiatives, FUSE will create a foundation for sustained collaboration that extends beyond the lifetime of the project.