Making food systems more resilient to food safety risks through the deployment of technological solutions — Horizon Europe

🔬 Scientific Alignment

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Suggested TRL Range

TRL 4 → 8

Scope Activities (3)

SC1Eliminating

in the areas of food safety and food fraud a lot of efforts have been invested in European framework programme projects generating knowledge and potential applications. Proposals should contribute to further develop existing knowledge and technological results in the areas to reach higher TRLs aligned with user’s needs and estimating the potential impact on cost for the consumers;

SC2Eliminating

support innovation to foster advances along the food system implementing digital and technological solutions in high TRL´s covering existing food safety and/or food fraud gaps. Proposals should develop and implement innovative solutions close to the market. This should be based on an initial food chain needs and technology gap analysis in the area of food safety hazards (including climate-related ones when applicable) and/or food fraud justifying the followed decision-making process. When selecting the food safety and/or food fraud technologies the most innovative clean technologies should be favoured in scenarios of equal conditions to reduce GHG emissions. The exploitation plan should include preliminary plans for commercialisation and deployment (feasibility study, business plan) indicating the possible funding sources to be potentially used;

SC3Eliminating

identify existing regulations and give recommendations about which technologies could use sandboxes to foster future commercialisation;

Expected Outcomes (5)

EO1Eliminating

a new level of ambition and creativity is implemented to tackle innovation creation, enhancing the deployment of solutions in the field of food safety and/or food fraud using existing knowledge, available technologies (such as molecular methods, genomic strategies, photonics, biotechnology, etc.) and the results achieved by European framework programmes projects. The EU’s strong knowledge base is translated into marketable results addressing the “innovation paradox” (i.e. the fact that knowledge does not always translate to marketable products and services);

EO2Eliminating

food systems become more resilient to food safety risks through the use and exploitation of available knowledge and technologies;

EO3Eliminating

increased food chain and food systems competitiveness creating close to the market impactful applications that will benefit and connect solutions for food systems actors (i.e., farming, raw materials and ingredients suppliers, food industry, etc.);

EO4Eliminating

increased complementarities and results uptake in the field of food safety and/or food fraud with past and existing European framework programmes projects, and synergies with programmes and their associated project results from the European Research Council (ERC) and the European Innovation Council (EIC);

EO5Eliminating

contribute to EU climate action: deployment of clean technologies in the food industry, to boost food manufacturing efficiency and reduce carbon footprint.

🌍 Impact Strategy

Target SDG Topics

Select the SDG targets (topics) that your future project proposal will actively address to align with EU Policy Impacts.

Expected Impacts (6)

EI1

Agri-food systems contribute to the EU strategic autonomy by fostering food and nutrition security practices and safeguarding long-term sustainability with multi-disciplinary approaches including One Health.

EI2

Farmers and relevant actors in agricultural primary sector are enabled to manage sustainable, efficient, profitable, circular, low greenhouse gas-emitting farming systems contributing to climate-neutrality and climate-resilience. This will be achieved by new knowledge, innovation and the upscaling and replication of existing and new sustainable farming approaches, including organic farming, while making farming a professionally attractive and remunerative life choice.

EI3

Sustainable and resource efficient farming practices contribute to ecosystems´ health, and their related ecosystem services, while minimising pollution, including in surface and groundwaters and the marine environment, and restoring and protecting biodiversity.

EI4

Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture (including organic aquaculture) contribute to fair, healthy, resilient and environment-friendly food systems, promote low-impact and diverse aquatic food production. Healthy aquatic ecosystems with thriving diversity of species and habitats provide ecosystem and climate services for safe and sustainable fisheries and aquaculture and use of coastal zones for leisure activities, thus triggering growth and jobs’ creation in coastal, and rural areas. Technological knowledge on the elimination of negative impacts of fishing and aquaculture is improved, in particular through the creation of innovative, more selective, energy and resource efficient and environmentally sustainable techniques.

EI5

The just transition to overall sustainable, healthy and inclusive food systems is consistently developed. Analysis of existing barriers and enablers to change allows to design effective leverages to steer the sustainability transition. Co-benefits for climate change mitigation and adaptation, environmental sustainability and circularity, sustainable healthy diets, malnutrition and hunger reduction are delivered.

EI6

Food environments are transformed so that citizens and communities are empowered to move towards healthy, affordable and sustainable diets; food businesses can flourish; food processing industries’ competitiveness is improved, while ensuring sustainability; food safety and food sovereignty as well as human health is preserved and food waste is reduced.

EU Policy Alignment

R&I in line with the strategic approach to EU agricultural research and innovation

high

This refers to the overarching strategy guiding EU research and innovation investments in agriculture, aiming to foster sustainable, productive, and resilient agricultural systems. It typically emphasizes digital transformation, ecological approaches, and solutions for climate change adaptation and mitigation, aligning with the Green Deal and Farm to Fork objectives.

💡

Evaluator focus:

Proposals should clearly demonstrate how their R&I activities align with the strategic priorities for EU agricultural research, contributing to sustainable resource management, climate resilience, and the digital transformation of the sector. Specific mention of how the project advances the strategic approach is expected.

An important driver for transforming food systems should be the integration of sectors, actors and policies

high

This statement emphasizes a holistic approach to food system transformation, advocating for the coordinated involvement of various sectors (e.g., agriculture, fisheries, health), diverse actors (e.g., farmers, consumers, industry, researchers), and different policy areas (e.g., environmental, economic, social). The goal is to create more coherent and effective strategies for sustainable and resilient food systems.

💡

Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate a multi-actor approach, involving stakeholders from different parts of the food system (e.g., producers, processors, retailers, consumers, public authorities). They should also show how their solutions integrate various dimensions (e.g., technological, social, economic, environmental) and align with broader policy objectives to achieve systemic change in food safety and resilience.

European Green Deal priorities

high

The European Green Deal is the EU's overarching growth strategy to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. It aims to transform the EU into a modern, resource-efficient, and competitive economy, ensuring no net emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050 and decoupling economic growth from resource use. It encompasses various policy areas, including climate, energy, transport, industry, agriculture, and biodiversity.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should clearly demonstrate how their solutions contribute to the broader objectives of the European Green Deal, particularly in areas relevant to food systems, such as reducing environmental impact, fostering sustainability, enhancing resource efficiency, and contributing to climate neutrality. Specific links to relevant Green Deal strategies (e.g., Farm to Fork, Biodiversity) are expected.

farm to fork strategy

high

The Farm to Fork Strategy is a key component of the European Green Deal, aiming to make food systems fair, healthy, and environmentally friendly. It includes targets for reducing the environmental footprint of food production, improving animal welfare, and ensuring food security.

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Evaluator focus:Proposals should show how they will contribute to the Farm to Fork Strategy's goals, particularly in terms of sustainable fisheries, reducing pollution, and ensuring safe and healthy seafood for consumers. Evaluators will look for solutions that enhance the resilience and sustainability of food systems.

Food 2030 pathways for action 2.0 report

high

The Food 2030 Pathways for Action 2.0 report builds upon the Food 2030 R&I policy framework, outlining concrete pathways and actions to accelerate the transition towards sustainable, healthy, and inclusive food systems. It identifies key areas for research and innovation, emphasizing systemic approaches, multi-actor engagement, and the integration of various dimensions (e.g., nutrition, climate, circularity, governance) to achieve the EU's food system goals.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should explicitly reference how their R&I activities align with and contribute to the pathways and actions outlined in the Food 2030 Pathways for Action 2.0 report. This includes demonstrating how the proposed solutions address specific challenges within the food system, foster sustainability, enhance resilience, and promote healthy diets, in line with the report's strategic directions.

zero pollution and climate action ambitions

high

These refer to the EU's overarching goals under the European Green Deal. The Zero Pollution Action Plan aims to reduce air, water, and soil pollution to levels no longer harmful to health and natural ecosystems. Climate action ambitions target climate neutrality by 2050, with intermediate targets for emissions reduction, adaptation, and resilience building.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate how their technological solutions for food safety risks contribute to reducing pollution (e.g., through more efficient resource use, reduced waste, or safer production methods) and/or enhance climate resilience within food systems (e.g., by reducing emissions, adapting to climate impacts, or promoting sustainable practices).

food safety regulations

high

EU food safety regulations, such as the General Food Law, aim to ensure a high level of protection of human health and consumers' interests in relation to food. They cover the entire food chain, from farm to fork, setting standards for hygiene, contaminants, residues, and traceability to guarantee that food produced and sold in the EU is safe.

💡

Evaluator focus:

While not the primary focus, proposals should implicitly or explicitly ensure that any digital innovations or agricultural practices proposed do not compromise food safety standards. If new technologies or practices are introduced, their impact on food safety should be considered, particularly regarding residues or contaminants.

sustainable use of pesticides requirements under the plant protection products framework

high

This framework, including the Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive (Directive 2009/128/EC) and the Plant Protection Products Regulation (Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009), aims to reduce the risks and impacts of pesticide use on human health and the environment. It promotes integrated pest management (IPM) and alternative approaches to pest control.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate how digital innovations can contribute to the more sustainable use of pesticides, for example, through precision application, early disease detection, or supporting IPM strategies, thereby reducing overall pesticide reliance and environmental impact.

animal health and welfare legislations

high

EU animal health and welfare legislations (e.g., Animal Health Law Regulation (EU) 2016/429) set high standards for the health and welfare of farmed animals. They cover aspects such as disease prevention and control, animal identification, transport, and farming conditions, aiming to protect animals and public health.

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Evaluator focus:

If the digital innovations have any application in livestock farming, proposals should ensure compliance with and, ideally, contribute to improved animal health and welfare standards through better monitoring, management, or environmental control.

regulation on feed additives

high

Regulation (EC) No 1831/2003 on additives for use in animal nutrition establishes a comprehensive authorization procedure for feed additives. Its primary goal is to ensure that feed additives are safe for animal health, human health (through the food chain), and the environment, and that they have a beneficial effect on animal production or welfare.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals focusing on animal feed or livestock production should demonstrate how their technological solutions contribute to ensuring the safety and efficacy of feed additives, or how they help monitor and manage risks associated with feed, thereby enhancing food safety and animal health within the food system.

contingency plan for ensuring food supply and food security

high

The EU's Contingency Plan for ensuring food supply and food security aims to strengthen the EU's preparedness and response to food crises. It focuses on monitoring risks, enhancing coordination among Member States, and ensuring the availability and accessibility of food, particularly in times of disruption.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate how their digital innovations contribute to enhancing the resilience of agricultural production systems, thereby indirectly strengthening food supply and security, especially in the face of climate change impacts like water and nutrient scarcity.

communications on food security and fertilisers

high

These refer to recent EU communications (e.g., COM(2022) 133 final on safeguarding food security and reinforcing the resilience of food systems, and COM(2022) 134 final on ensuring availability and affordability of fertilisers) that address critical challenges to the EU's food system. They highlight the need for resilience, diversification of supply, and sustainable resource management in the face of geopolitical events and market disruptions.

💡

Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate how their technological solutions contribute to strengthening food security and resilience, particularly by addressing vulnerabilities in the food supply chain or promoting more sustainable and efficient use of critical inputs like fertilisers, without compromising food safety. This could involve solutions for resource efficiency, alternative inputs, or supply chain monitoring.

Food 2030 R&I initiative

high

Food 2030 is the EU’s research and innovation policy framework for sustainable, healthy, and inclusive food systems. Pathway 7 specifically targets 'Nutrition and Sustainable Healthy Diets,' emphasizing the role of diets in preventing non-communicable diseases, including mental health disorders.

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Evaluator focus:Proposals must explicitly link their objectives and outcomes to Food 2030’s pathways, particularly Pathway 7, and demonstrate how they will generate actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders.

EU vision for agriculture and food

high

This vision outlines the long-term direction for the EU's agricultural and food sectors, focusing on sustainability, resilience, food security, and fair income for farmers. It often emphasizes innovation, digital transformation, and adapting to climate change challenges while ensuring a robust food supply.

💡

Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate how their digital innovations contribute to a more resilient, sustainable, and secure agricultural and food system, aligning with the long-term strategic goals for the sector. This includes addressing resource efficiency, climate adaptation, and the economic viability of farming.

communication “Building the future with nature: Boosting Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing in the EU”

high

This Communication (COM(2023) 174 final) outlines the EU's strategy to leverage biotechnology and biomanufacturing for sustainable solutions across various sectors, including food and agriculture. It aims to foster innovation, accelerate the development and deployment of bio-based products and processes, and strengthen Europe's competitiveness in these fields, while ensuring environmental sustainability and safety.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals involving biotechnological or biomanufacturing solutions for addressing food safety risks (e.g., novel detection methods, bio-based packaging, microbial interventions) should demonstrate how they align with the objectives of this Communication, contributing to sustainable and safe food systems through advanced bio-innovation.

European partnerships on Animal Health and Welfare

high

This European Partnership focuses on advancing research and innovation in animal health and welfare. It aims to develop new solutions, tools, and strategies to prevent and control animal diseases, improve animal welfare standards, and reduce the need for antimicrobials, thereby contributing to sustainable livestock farming and public health.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate how their technological solutions for food safety risks contribute to improving animal health and welfare, for example, by reducing disease transmission, enhancing monitoring, or developing safer production practices in livestock farming, which directly impacts the safety of animal-derived food products.

European partnerships on Sustainable Food Systems for people, planet and climate

high

This European Partnership aims to accelerate the transition towards sustainable food systems that provide healthy and safe food for all, while respecting planetary boundaries and contributing to climate action. It fosters a systemic approach to R&I, addressing the interconnected challenges of food production, processing, distribution, consumption, and waste.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should explicitly demonstrate how their technological solutions for food safety risks contribute to the broader goals of this partnership, by enhancing the sustainability, resilience, and safety of food systems across the entire value chain, from production to consumption, considering environmental, social, and economic dimensions.

European partnerships on Agriculture of Data (forthcoming)

high

This forthcoming European Partnership is expected to focus on leveraging data and digital technologies to enhance the sustainability, efficiency, and resilience of the agricultural sector. It will likely support research and innovation in areas such as precision farming, data-driven decision-making, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure for agriculture.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals deploying technological solutions for food safety risks, especially those involving data, AI, IoT, or other digital tools, should demonstrate how they align with the objectives of this partnership, contributing to the digital transformation of agriculture for improved food safety, traceability, and resilience.

European innovation Partnership for Agriculture productivity and sustainability (EIP-AGRI)

high

EIP-AGRI aims to foster competitive and sustainable farming and forestry by connecting research and innovation with practice. It facilitates the exchange of knowledge and innovative solutions between farmers, researchers, businesses, and advisors, particularly through Operational Groups, to address practical challenges in agriculture.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate how their circular water management solutions are developed in close collaboration with end-users (farmers, farmer groups) and how they facilitate the uptake of innovative practices. Emphasizing practical applicability, knowledge transfer, and the potential for widespread adoption in agriculture is key.

biodiversity strategy

medium

The EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 is a comprehensive, long-term plan to protect nature and reverse the degradation of ecosystems. It aims to put Europe's biodiversity on a path to recovery by 2030, for the benefit of people, climate, and the planet. Key targets include protecting 30% of EU land and sea, restoring degraded ecosystems, and reducing pesticide use.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate how circular water management in agriculture can contribute to biodiversity protection and restoration, for example, by reducing water abstraction from natural ecosystems, improving water quality, or creating habitats through sustainable water infrastructure.

common agricultural policy (CAP)

medium

Common Agricultural Policy supports sustainable agriculture. Less relevant unless the proposal involves bio-based materials or food processing.

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Evaluator focus:

Only relevant for proposals with agricultural or bio-based components.

EU action plan for the development of organic production

medium

The Action Plan aims to boost organic farming, which is generally more biodiversity-friendly than conventional agriculture. The project could explore organic farming as a solution for species decline in agricultural landscapes.

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Evaluator focus:Focus on organic farming as a biodiversity-friendly practice. Proposals should demonstrate how their solutions align with the Action Plan’s objectives and promote organic agriculture.

legislative and non-legislative initiatives to enhance cooperation of primary producers and support their position in the food chain

medium

These initiatives aim to improve the fairness and efficiency of the food supply chain by strengthening the position of primary producers (farmers, fishers). This includes measures to foster cooperation (e.g., producer organisations), address unfair trading practices, and enhance transparency, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and equitable food system.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate how their technological solutions for food safety risks can empower primary producers, facilitate their cooperation, or improve their access to information and markets, thereby contributing to a more balanced and resilient food chain. This could involve digital tools for traceability, quality assurance, or market access.

protein strategy

medium

The EU Protein Strategy aims to increase the EU's self-sufficiency in plant proteins, reduce reliance on imported feed, and promote sustainable protein production. It encourages research and innovation into alternative protein sources, improved protein efficiency in animal diets, and sustainable cultivation of protein crops.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals could demonstrate how digital innovations contribute to more efficient and sustainable protein production in agriculture, for example, through optimized cultivation of protein crops in water/nutrient-scarce environments or improved nutrient management for protein synthesis.

common fisheries policy (CFP)

medium

The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is the EU's set of rules for managing European fishing fleets and conserving fish stocks. Its aim is to ensure that fishing and aquaculture are environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable and that they provide a source of healthy food for EU citizens.

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Evaluator focus:

If the proposed technological solutions for food safety risks are applicable to seafood or aquaculture products, proposals should demonstrate how they align with the CFP's objectives for sustainable and safe aquatic food production. This could include traceability, quality control, or environmental monitoring in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

Control Regulation

medium

This likely refers to Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 establishing a Community control system for ensuring compliance with the rules of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). It sets out rules for monitoring, inspection, and enforcement of fisheries activities to ensure sustainable exploitation of marine biological resources and traceability of fishery products.

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Evaluator focus:

If the proposed technological solutions for food safety risks are applicable to seafood or aquaculture, proposals should demonstrate how they can enhance compliance with fisheries control rules, improve traceability of fishery products, or support effective monitoring and enforcement, thereby contributing to the safety and legality of aquatic food supply chains.

strategic guidelines for a more sustainable and competitive EU aquaculture for the period 2021 to 2030

medium

These guidelines set out a common vision for the development of EU aquaculture, focusing on sustainability, competitiveness, resilience, and social acceptance. They aim to support the sector in achieving environmental, economic, and social sustainability, contributing to the European Green Deal and the Farm to Fork Strategy.

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Evaluator focus:

If the proposed technological solutions for food safety risks are applicable to aquaculture, proposals should demonstrate how they align with these guidelines, contributing to the sustainability, competitiveness, and resilience of the EU aquaculture sector, particularly in ensuring safe and high-quality aquaculture products.

multi-disciplinary strategy for European life sciences

medium

This strategy (e.g., the Communication 'Boosting Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing in the EU') aims to harness the potential of life sciences and biotechnology for sustainable solutions across various sectors, including health, agriculture, and industry. It promotes research, innovation, and the responsible development and deployment of biotechnological applications.

💡

Evaluator focus:

Proposals could demonstrate how biotechnological approaches (e.g., bioremediation, microbial solutions for water treatment, bio-sensors) contribute to circular water management in agriculture. This would involve leveraging life sciences for innovative and sustainable water solutions.

new EU biotech act

medium

While there isn't a single "New EU biotech act" yet, this likely refers to ongoing legislative developments and discussions around regulating new genomic techniques (NGTs) and other biotechnologies. The aim is to create a clear, proportionate, and innovation-friendly regulatory framework for biotechnology, balancing safety with the potential for sustainable solutions in agriculture and other sectors.

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Evaluator focus:

If the proposal involves biotechnological solutions for circular water management (e.g., NGTs for drought-resistant crops, bio-engineered solutions for water purification), it should acknowledge the evolving regulatory landscape and demonstrate how the proposed innovations align with principles of safety, ethics, and sustainability.

EU Missions ‘A Soil Deal for Europe’

medium

The EU Mission 'A Soil Deal for Europe' aims to establish 100 living labs and lighthouses to lead the transition to healthy soils by 2030. It focuses on protecting and restoring soil health across Europe, recognizing soil as a vital resource for food production, biodiversity, climate regulation, and water management. It addresses challenges like soil degradation, pollution, and erosion.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate how their technological solutions for food safety risks contribute to or benefit from improved soil health. This could involve reducing soil contamination that impacts food safety, or developing sustainable agricultural practices that enhance soil resilience and, indirectly, food system resilience.

EU Missions ‘Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030’

medium

The EU Mission 'Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030' aims to protect and restore marine and freshwater ecosystems, prevent and eliminate pollution, and make the blue economy sustainable and carbon-neutral. It focuses on a systemic approach to address the multiple pressures on aquatic environments, including those originating from land-based activities.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate how their technological solutions for food safety risks, particularly those related to land-based food production, contribute to reducing pollution or nutrient runoff into aquatic environments, thereby supporting the mission's goals. If the solutions apply to aquatic food systems, the link is more direct.

European partnerships on Agroecology

medium

The European Partnership on Agroecology aims to accelerate the transition towards agroecological farming systems across Europe. It supports research and innovation to develop and implement practices that combine environmental protection, economic viability for farmers, and social fairness, contributing to sustainable food production and food system resilience.

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Evaluator focus:

Proposals should demonstrate how their technological solutions for food safety risks align with agroecological principles, promoting sustainable practices that reduce reliance on external inputs, enhance biodiversity, and improve the overall resilience of farming systems, while ensuring food safety.

European partnerships on Sustainable Blue Economy

medium

The European Partnership on Sustainable Blue Economy supports research and innovation to foster a sustainable and resilient blue economy. It focuses on developing innovative solutions for marine and freshwater resources, including sustainable aquaculture, fisheries, coastal tourism, and marine renewable energy, while protecting marine ecosystems.

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Evaluator focus:

If the proposed technological solutions for food safety risks are applicable to aquatic food systems (fisheries, aquaculture), proposals should demonstrate how they align with the objectives of this partnership, contributing to the sustainability and safety of blue economy sectors.

European Oceans Pact

low

The European Oceans Pact is an initiative under the EU Mission 'Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030'. It aims to engage citizens, stakeholders, and policymakers in co-creating solutions for ocean and water protection and restoration. It fosters a sense of shared responsibility and collective action for the health of our marine and freshwater ecosystems.

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Evaluator focus:

While primarily focused on oceans and waters, proposals could demonstrate how improved circular water management in agriculture reduces nutrient and pollutant runoff into freshwater systems, ultimately benefiting coastal and marine environments. Engagement with stakeholders in water management could also align with the pact's participatory approach.

EU-Africa Partnership on Food and Nutrition Security and Sustainable Agriculture (FNSSA)

low

The FNSSA partnership is a long-term strategic collaboration between the EU and Africa to address challenges in food and nutrition security and promote sustainable agriculture across the African continent. It focuses on research and innovation, capacity building, and policy dialogue to foster resilient and sustainable food systems.

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Evaluator focus:

If the proposal includes a strong international cooperation dimension, particularly with African partners, and demonstrates how circular water management solutions developed could be relevant or transferable to African agricultural contexts, it would align with this partnership.

AU-EU High Level Policy Dialogue (HLPD) on Science, Technology and Innovation

low

The AU-EU HLPD on STI provides a platform for strategic dialogue and cooperation between the African Union and the European Union on science, technology, and innovation. It aims to strengthen research and innovation partnerships, address shared challenges, and promote sustainable development through scientific collaboration.

💡

Evaluator focus:

Similar to FNSSA, if the proposal involves significant international cooperation, particularly with African partners, in the area of science, technology, and innovation related to circular water management, it would align with the HLPD's objectives.

Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean areas (PRIMA)

low

PRIMA is a Euro-Mediterranean partnership supporting research and innovation for sustainable water and food systems in the Mediterranean region. It addresses challenges such as water scarcity, food security, and climate change impacts, fostering collaborative solutions between EU and Mediterranean Partner Countries.

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Evaluator focus:

If the proposal focuses on the Mediterranean region or includes partners from PRIMA participating countries, and addresses water scarcity and sustainable agriculture, it should explicitly align with PRIMA's objectives and demonstrate how the solutions are tailored to the specific challenges of the Mediterranean context.

📋 Additional Guidance

⚖ Eligibility rules

Maximum budget€6.0M

⚖ Eligibility — synthesis

General conditions

1. Admissibility Conditions: Proposal page limit and layout

Applicants submitting a proposal under the blind evaluation pilot (see General Annex F) must not disclose their organisation names, acronyms, logos nor names of personnel in the proposal abstract and Part B of their first-stage application (see General Annex E).

described in Annex A and Annex E of the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.

Proposal page limits and layout: described in Part B of the Application Form available in the Submission System.

2. Eligible Countries

described in Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes.

A number of non-EU/non-Associated Countries that are not automatically eligible for funding have made specific provisions for making funding available for their participants in Horizon Europe projects. See the information in the Horizon Europe Programme Guide.

3. Other Eligible Conditions

The following additional eligibility criteria apply: The proposals must apply the multi-actor approach. See definition of the multi-actor approach in the introduction to this work programme part.

described in Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes.

4. Financial and operational capacity and exclusion

described in Annex C of the Work Programme General Annexes.

5a. Evaluation and award: Award criteria, scoring and thresholds

This topic is part of the blind evaluation pilot under which first stage proposals will be evaluated blindly.

are described in Annex D of the Work Programme General Annexes.

5b. Evaluation and award: Submission and evaluation processes

are described in Annex F of the Work Programme General Annexes and the Online Manual.

5c. Evaluation and award: Indicative timeline for evaluation and grant agreement

described in Annex F of the Work Programme General Annexes.

6. Legal and financial set-up of the grants

described in Annex G of the Work Programme General Annexes.

Specific conditions

described in the [specific topic of the Work Programme]

Application and evaluation forms and model grant agreement (MGA):

Application form templates — the application form specific to this call is available in the Submission System

Standard application form (HE RIA, IA)

Standard application form (HE RIA IA Stage 1)

Evaluation form templates — will be used with the necessary adaptations

Standard evaluation form (HE RIA, IA)

Standard evaluation form (HE RIA, IA and CSA Stage 1)

Guidance

HE Programme Guide

Model Grant Agreements (MGA)

HE MGA

Additional documents:

HE Main Work Programme 2025 – 1. General Introduction

HE Main Work Programme 2025 – 9. Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment

HE Main Work Programme 2025 – 14. General Annexes

HE Programme Guide

HE Framework Programme 2021/695

HE Specific Programme Decision 2021/764

EU Financial Regulation 2024/2509

Rules for Legal Entity Validation, LEAR Appointment and Financial Capacity Assessment

EU Grants AGA — Annotated Model Grant Agreement

Funding & Tenders Portal Online Manual

Funding & Tenders Portal Terms and Conditions

Funding & Tenders Portal Privacy Statement

🎯 Call process & Evaluation criteria (Pre-award)

Evaluators will prioritize proposals that clearly demonstrate a high Technology Readiness Level (TRL 4-8), a robust plan for market deployment and commercialisation (including business plans and identified funding sources), and a strong potential to address identified food safety and/or food fraud gaps. Key emphasis will be placed on innovative, clean technologies that reduce GHG emissions, and the effective translation of existing R&I into tangible, impactful applications for the entire food chain. The mandatory multi-actor approach must be clearly demonstrated.

🧭 Strategy

🧭 Strategic insights

4 key insights you must internalise before writing. Each is grounded in the call text and tells you what evaluators will actually look for. Share these with your consortium before drafting.

Stage 1 proposals are evaluated blindly and must be fully anonymized

This call is part of a blind evaluation pilot. Your first-stage application must not disclose organisation names, acronyms, logos, or personnel names in the abstract or Part B. Failure to properly anonymize your proposal will result in it being declared inadmissible before evaluation begins.

Source: Eligibility

The multi-actor approach is a mandatory eligibility criterion, not a suggestion

The call text specifies the multi-actor approach as an additional eligibility criterion. This is a make-or-break condition. Your proposal must demonstrate genuine co-creation among a mix of actors (e.g., researchers, industry, end-users) from the outset, not just a consortium of similar partners. A proposal failing this check will be rejected before scoring.

Source: Eligibility

A credible business plan is as critical as the technology itself

As an Innovation Action targeting high TRLs, the focus is on market deployment. The scope explicitly requires an exploitation plan including a feasibility study and business plan, with identified funding sources. A proposal without a robust, credible plan for commercialisation will be scored down, regardless of its technical merit.

Source: Scope

Clean technologies are the designated tie-breaker for equally scored proposals

The scope explicitly states that when selecting technologies, the most innovative clean technologies should be favoured in scenarios of equal conditions to reduce GHG emissions. This is a direct instruction to evaluators. Clearly articulating your project's contribution to climate action is not optional; it is a key competitive differentiator.

Source: Scope

🏷 Keywords

Food safetyFood fraudTechnological solutionsDigital solutionsHigh TRLMarket deploymentCommercialisationClimate actionGHG emissions reductionFood system resilienceMulti-actor approachRegulatory sandboxesBiotechnologyGenomic strategiesPhotonicsMolecular methodsInnovation paradox

🧩 Project backbone

Build your project backbone 🧩

The AI has drafted potential core elements based on the call analysis. To start building your project proposal structure, select the elements that resonate with your consortium's concept. You can refine and rewrite them fully once your project workspace is created.

✨ Problems to be solved

Insufficient Deployment of Existing R&I

Despite significant investment in European framework programmes, a gap exists in translating research knowledge and technological results into higher TRLs and marketable applications, leading to an "innovation paradox" in food safety and fraud.

👤 Food Industry & Processors👤 Technology Providers & Innovators

Vulnerability of Food Systems to Safety Risks & Fraud

Food systems face ongoing challenges from food safety hazards (including climate-related ones) and fraud, impacting consumer trust, public health, and economic stability across the food chain.

👤 Food Industry & Processors👤 Farmers & Primary Producers👤 Consumers

Lack of Market-Ready, Cost-Effective Solutions

There is a need for innovative, high-TRL technological solutions that are close to market, cost-effective for consumers, and address identified gaps in food safety and fraud detection/prevention.

👤 Food Industry & Processors👤 Consumers👤 Technology Providers & Innovators

Environmental Impact of Food Production

Current food industry practices contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating the adoption of cleaner, more efficient technologies to reduce carbon footprint and align with climate action goals.

👤 Food Industry & Processors👤 Farmers & Primary Producers

Regulatory Barriers to Innovation Uptake

Existing regulations may not always be adapted to rapidly evolving technological solutions, potentially hindering their commercialisation and widespread deployment without mechanisms like regulatory sandboxes.

👤 Regulatory Bodies & Policymakers👤 Technology Providers & Innovators

✨ Target Groups

Food Industry & ProcessorsDirect

Direct beneficiaries who will adopt and integrate new technological solutions to enhance food safety, combat fraud, and improve operational efficiency.

Farmers & Primary ProducersDirect

Direct beneficiaries who will benefit from improved food safety practices and technologies, contributing to more sustainable and resilient farming systems.

ConsumersIndirect

Indirect beneficiaries who will benefit from increased food safety, reduced food fraud, and potentially lower costs due to improved efficiency in the food system.

Regulatory Bodies & PolicymakersDirect

Direct beneficiaries who will receive recommendations on regulatory sandboxes and insights into new technologies to inform future policy and enforcement.

Scientific & Research CommunityIndirect

Indirect beneficiaries who will benefit from the further development and validation of existing knowledge and technologies, contributing to the broader scientific understanding and innovation ecosystem.

Technology Providers & InnovatorsDirect

Direct beneficiaries who will develop and deploy the innovative solutions, benefiting from market opportunities and enhanced competitiveness.

✨ Proposed Objectives

Advance and Deploy High-TRL Food Safety & Fraud Solutions

Develop and implement innovative digital and technological solutions (e.g., molecular methods, genomic strategies, photonics, biotechnology) to address critical food safety hazards (including climate-related ones) and food fraud gaps, bringing them to TRL 8.

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Ensure Market Readiness and Consumer Benefit

Conduct a comprehensive food chain needs and technology gap analysis to justify solution selection, integrate preliminary commercialisation and deployment plans (feasibility study, business plan), and estimate potential cost impacts for consumers.

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Foster Regulatory Alignment and Clean Technology Adoption

Identify existing regulations and give recommendations about which technologies could use sandboxes to foster future commercialisation, while favouring innovative clean technologies to boost food manufacturing efficiency and reduce GHG emissions.

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Maximise Synergies and Knowledge Uptake

Leverage existing knowledge and results from past and ongoing European framework programmes (including ERC and EIC projects) to avoid duplication and enhance the deployment of solutions, effectively addressing the “innovation paradox”.

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✨ Proposed Impacts

Enhanced Food and Nutrition SecuritySocialPolicyEconomic

Agri-food systems contribute to EU strategic autonomy by fostering food and nutrition security practices and safeguarding long-term sustainability with multi-disciplinary approaches including One Health.

📏 Prevalence of moderate or severe food insecurity in the targeted beneficiaries, based on the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES) (FAO)

EI1👤 Food Industry & Processors👤 Farmers & Primary Producers👤 Consumers👤 Regulatory Bodies & Policymakers

More Resilient and Competitive Food SystemsEconomicSocialScientific

Food systems become more resilient to food safety risks through the use and exploitation of available knowledge and technologies, leading to increased competitiveness and impactful applications for all food system actors.

📏 Tons of agricultural production loss due to climate-related weather events avoided (Commonly used)

EI6👤 Food Industry & Processors👤 Farmers & Primary Producers👤 Technology Providers & Innovators

Reduced Environmental Footprint of Food IndustryEnvironmentalEconomicPolicy

Deployment of clean technologies in the food industry boosts food manufacturing efficiency and reduces carbon footprint, contributing to EU climate action and environmental sustainability.

📏 tCO2e of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions mitigated (IRIS+)

EI5👤 Food Industry & Processors👤 Farmers & Primary Producers👤 Regulatory Bodies & Policymakers

Improved Food Safety and Reduced Food FraudSocialEconomicScientific

A new level of ambition and creativity is implemented to tackle innovation creation, enhancing the deployment of solutions in the field of food safety and/or food fraud using existing knowledge and available technologies, preserving human health.

📏 Number of food safety incidents related to specific hazards reduced (WHO)

EI6👤 Food Industry & Processors👤 Consumers👤 Regulatory Bodies & Policymakers

Enhanced Knowledge Transfer and Innovation UptakeScientificEconomicPolicy

Increased complementarities and results uptake in the field of food safety and/or food fraud with past and existing European framework programmes projects, translating the EU’s strong knowledge base into marketable results and fostering innovation.

📏 Number of marketable products/services developed from EU-funded research (Commonly used)

EI2👤 Scientific & Research Community👤 Technology Providers & Innovators👤 Food Industry & Processors