The VISION4FOOD project hosted its first annual Network of Interest (NoI) meeting on 22 January 2026 as an interactive online event where partner BioCoS presented the project and the work of Use Case 1: A DNA-data driven AI system for Food Sustainability and Traceability. The session was designed to bring together stakeholders, researchers, innovators and practitioners engaged in food systems innovation across Europe.

The event was an important step in building a collaborative community around food system transformation. Participants connected with peers involved in food innovation and explored opportunities for shared learning and cooperation. Attendees were introduced to the VISION4FOOD Network of Interest and its mission. The session focused on explaining the role of the network in fostering dialogue, collaboration and knowledge exchange among diverse food system actors.

As part of this event, FoodDataQuest had the opportunity to join and present the project highlighting the use of data-driven innovation to support sustainable, healthy, and inclusive food systems. The project aims to address key challenges in the European food chain by improving how data is shared, combined, and used across stakeholders. It brings together public, private, and unconventional data sources and promotes interoperability to enable more informed decision-making. By applying artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics, FoodDataQuest develops and tests tools that support industry, policymakers, and consumers in areas such as sustainability, nutrition, and food quality.

Additionally, one of the use cases was presented. This first use case focuses on combining DNA-based analysis with artificial intelligence to improve food sustainability and traceability. The system applies DNA technologies to verify product origin and authenticity, supported by AI tools that analyse data from farming practices, processing, and supply chains. By linking biological data with digital information, the approach enables more accurate tracking of food products, such as olive oil, from production to consumption.

The use case demonstrates how integrating DNA data and AI can help reduce fraud, support quality assurance, optimise production decisions, and strengthen consumer trust. It also shows the potential of data-driven solutions to support local producers and protected products, while contributing to more transparent, sustainable, and resilient food systems.