FOOD EXPO 2025 –the leading food and beverage trade show in southeast Europe– was held in Athens (Greece) from 8-10 March 2025 and provided a fantastic opportunity for EXCEL4MED to engage with food industry leaders, researchers and consumers, showcasing our pioneering research and novel food products.

As an Excellence Hub for Mediterranean fruit supply chains, our project focuses on sustainability, resilience and innovation, and this event was a key moment to share our progress with a broad audience.

A collaborative workshop on sustainable food solutions

During the last day of the exhibition, EXCEL4MED had the opportunity to hold a workshop co-organised by our partners from SEVT – Federation of Hellenic Food Industries, the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, ELGO-DIMITRA and CIHEAM-IAMM.

The session, opened by Eirini Xaxiri (SEVT), featured expert presentations that highlighted EXCEL4MED’s advanced research in food waste, sustainability and functional foods:

• Prof. Vasilis Valdramidis (National and Kapodistrian University of Athens) – Presented the research aspect of the EXCEL4MED project.
• Dr. George Katsaros (ELGO-DIMITRA) – Introduced new functional products with incorporated bioactive ingredients from side streams of the food industry.
• Prof. Georgios Kleftodimos (CIHEAM-IAMM) – Discussed sustainable business models to strengthen Mediterranean food supply chains.

The EXCEL4MED workshop gathered more than 20 participants and attracted significant interest from food industry professionals, scientists and consumers alike.

Tasting the future of Mediterranean food

Beyond insightful discussions, EXCEL4MED workshop was a sensory experience for attendees. Participants had the chance to sample innovative cheese in brine and yogurt enriched with bioactive compounds, developed by ELGO-DIMITRA as part of EXCEL4MED’s research.

The EXCEL4MED novel products highlight how science-driven solutions can enhance both nutrition and sustainability in the Mediterranean diet.

EXCEL4MED is committed to strengthening Mediterranean fruit supply chains by promoting waste valorisation strategies, functional food development and sustainable processing methods.

By engaging with stakeholders at events like FOOD EXPO, we bring our research one step closer to real-world impact, ensuring that consumers, producers and policymakers can benefit from our findings.

Stay connected with us for more updates on EXCEL4MED‘s latest breakthroughs, upcoming events and ways to get involved!