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Newsletter: July 2026
Welcome to the July edition of the Exeter Food Research Network newsletter!
Have you recently published food-related work, completed a project, or received a grant? Are you planning an event or know of relevant opportunities or resources?
Please email us at Exeter Food or follow us on LinkedIn and tag us in your posts for resharing!
We’re taking a break for August and will be back with the next EF newsletter in September. Wishing you a wonderful summer!
Contents:
NEWS | EVENTS| OPPORTUNITIES | RESOURCES
Exeter Food & Environmental Intelligence Research Networks Workshop
A recent Exeter Food & Environmental Intelligence Research Networks Workshop brought together researchers and practitioners to explore how AI and data-driven approaches can support food systems and environmental challenges. Presentations highlighted the potential of Small Agricultural Language Models (SALMs) to provide accessible farming advice, the use of food and recipe data to better understand inequality and nutrition, and AI tools to identify and map community-based environmental organisations. Discussions emphasised the importance of data quality, local knowledge and responsible AI use. The event provided a valuable platform for interdisciplinary collaboration and future research opportunities across food and environmental intelligence.
Roots & Routes Celebrates Food, Memory and Migration
Roots & Routes was a vibrant two-day programme last month at Exeter College. Exploring how food connects identity, heritage and community, the event featured inspiring talks, storytelling, a diverse marketplace, and conversations with chefs and entrepreneurs. Highlights included community food stories and their power to strengthen identities and uplift spirits during times of war and other catastrophes, as well as discussions on building diasporic food entrepreneurship futures in the South West. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making the event such a success. What we accomplished together was truly remarkable. The event was definitely the beginning rather than an end, with exciting possibilities for the future. From a second, more festival-style edition to regular community gatherings, the potential for this growing network of communities is immense. Watch this space for future opportunities to get involved.
Ticklemore Cheese Wins Prestigious National Award
Congratulations to Exeter Food stakeholder Ticklemore Cheese Ltd of Totnes, Devon, which has won the Specialist Cheesemakers Association (SCA) Patron’s Award 2026, one of the UK artisan cheese sector’s highest honours. The award recognises outstanding craftsmanship and quality, and this year was awarded for Devon Blue, Ticklemore’s award-winning cow’s milk cheese. Since taking ownership in 2023, Ben and Laura Harris have continued the dairy’s tradition of excellence while investing in the future of artisan cheesemaking. The award highlights the quality of Devon’s dairy heritage and reinforces Ticklemore Cheese’s reputation as one of Britain’s leading specialist cheesemakers.
New Research Highlights Health and Environmental Benefits of Reducing Meat and Dairy Consumption
A new study led by the University of Edinburgh, in collaboration with the University of Oxford and Food Standards Scotland, has been published in Nature Food. The research modelled 33 pathways for achieving the UK Climate Change Committee’s meat and dairy reduction targets among Scottish adults. Findings showed that almost all pathways improved health, environmental and most nutritional outcomes without increasing diet costs. The greatest benefits were seen when reductions focused on high red meat consumers and when meat and dairy were replaced with foods such as vegetables, beans, eggs and plant-based dairy alternatives, supporting healthier and more sustainable diets. The full article is here https://www.nature.com/articles/s43016-026-01384-3
New Research Explores the Heritage of Devon’s Tea Culture
Paul Cleave, University of Exeter, is undertaking research into tea heritage in Devon and beyond, contributing to A Word About Tea and collaborating with colleagues in the UK and Germany. The work examines the origins of the now-iconic Devon cream tea, tracing its roots in farmhouse hospitality, dairy traditions and regional tourism. Drawing on postcards, photographs, literature and guidebooks, the research reveals how simple combinations of bread, clotted cream and home-made preserves evolved into a distinctive regional foodway. The study highlights the rich social history and enduring cultural significance of Devon’s tea heritage. Contact Paul Cleave for more information.
Exeter Quayside Farmers’ Market Celebrates First Anniversary
The Exeter Quayside Farmers’ Market is celebrating a successful first year after 12 months of supporting local producers and strengthening the regional economy. Led by Food Exeter, the market has become a popular destination for residents and visitors seeking high-quality local food, drink and artisan products.
The next market takes place on Saturday 18th July 09:00–13:00 at Piazza Terracina, Exeter Quayside, featuring more than 30 traders, including new additions Calineo Artisan Chocolatier, Exeter Gin, Penstone Barton Farm, Pesto Taste and Teign Greens. Visitors can also enjoy the Sustainable Seas Festival, with maritime activities, talks, historic vessels and live music throughout the day.
Changes in Out-of-Home Food Purchasing Following the Introduction of England’s Calorie Labelling Regulations
A new Exeter led population-level study has examined whether England’s 2022 calorie labelling policy influenced out-of-home food purchases. Analysing data from around 7,500 consumers, researchers found no clear evidence of a meaningful change in calories purchased following implementation. This included purchases across large chains, independent outlets, and different food types. While some small shifts were observed, these were not robust. The findings suggest that calorie labelling alone may be insufficient to drive substantial behaviour change at population level. Further research is needed to explore complementary measures, including changes to menus and wider interventions to support healthier food choices. Read more here https://bmjpublichealth.bmj.com/content/4/2/e003957
Spotlight: St Sidwell’s Community Centre & Sidwell Street Café
At the heart of St Sidwell’s Community Centre in Exeter is a simple belief: good food brings people together. Open Tuesday to Friday, the Sidwell Street Café serves affordable, nutritious meals made using donated and home-grown produce. A community fridge helps reduce food waste while offering free food to anyone in need. Alongside the café, St Sidwell’s runs cookery courses, food projects and training opportunities, creating valuable experiences for volunteers and those facing barriers to work. Visit the Sidwell Street Bakehouse opposite John Lewis, 178-179 Sidwell Street or explore their catering and community initiatives online and book through their website.
How Did Labelling Provision on Menus for Online Food Delivery Change After Implementation of England's Calorie Labelling Regulations?
A study by Exeter Food member Kerry Ann Brown and colleagues explores how England’s 2022 calorie labelling regulations have influenced online food delivery menus. By October 2023, only 12% of restaurants listed calories online, with provision lower in the most deprived areas (9%) compared to the least deprived (14%). While coverage remains limited, restaurants that did display calories labelled most items, and small reductions in calorie content were observed—14 kcal per food item and 5 kcal per drink. These findings suggest calorie labelling may encourage positive changes in menu offerings, but uneven implementation risks widening dietary inequalities and highlights the need for improved reach in underserved communities. Read the full article https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1353829226000298
Young People Question Impact of Calorie Labelling Policy
New research published in the BMC Public Health journal explores young people’s views on England’s out-of-home calorie labelling policy. Using a photovoice approach, the study found participants were largely sceptical about calorie labelling as a tool for healthier eating. Instead, they emphasised the importance of understanding why we eat, what we eat, and how food makes us feel. Young people highlighted wider structural barriers within local food environments and called for more meaningful support. The findings underline the need to amplify youth voices and involve them more directly in shaping food policy, systems, and healthier, more equitable food environments. Read the full article here
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-026-26716-7
Researchers Warn Against Securitised Response to Global Biodiversity Loss
Researchers from the University of Exeter and the University of East Anglia have warned that framing global biodiversity loss as a national security threat risks distorting evidence and driving ineffective policy. Writing in PLOS Climate, the team critiques a UK Government report that links biodiversity loss, ecosystem collapse and migration to security risks. While welcoming greater attention to nature loss, they argue that a security lens overstates migration threats, sidelines evidence-based solutions and risks repeating mistakes seen in climate policy. Instead, the researchers call for non-securitised, evidence-led approaches that prioritise ecosystem restoration, food security, adaptation and resilience for the communities most affected by environmental change. ‘Risks and limits from a securitisation framing of nature and biodiversity crises: Lessons from climate change’, Mark Tebboth, Sarah Redicker, Neil Adger, Reetika Revathy Subramanian, is published in PLOS Climate.
Minette Batters: Harvest – An Evening in Conversation
The Bookery, in partnership with Sustainable Crediton, are delighted to invite you to this event with Minette Batters, former NFU President and one of the most influential voices in British agriculture, to celebrate the publication of her new book, Harvest. In conversation with Devon farmer and agricultural campaigner Andy Gray, Minette will share insights from her life in farming and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the sector today. Presented with Sustainable Crediton, this special event promises an engaging evening of discussion and inspiration. The event takes place at Crediton Library, Crediton on Friday 17th July at 19.00. Visit https://www.ticketsource.com/thebookery for tickets.
Growing Local: Exeter Quayside Farmers’ Market and 2026 Dates Announced
Launched in June 2025, the Exeter Quayside Farmers’ Market has quickly become a vibrant hub for fresh, seasonal and sustainably produced food. Set on the Piazza Terracina, alongside the historic Quayside, the market brings together farmers, growers and independent producers, giving residents the chance to buy directly from the people who make their food. Beyond shopping, the market celebrates community, supports the local economy and promotes healthier, more resilient food systems. Building on a successful first year, dates for the 2026 season have now been announced. The next is Saturday 18th July 09:00- 13:00. Find out more:
ESGI 195 Coming to Exeter in July 2026
The University of Exeter will host the 195th European Study Group with Industry (ESGI) from 20th –24th July in the Peter Chalk Centre, Streatham Campus. This week-long workshop brings together over 70 mathematical and data scientists with partners from business, industry and government to tackle real-world challenges. Organisations present problems on Monday, followed by three intensive days of collaborative modelling and solution-finding, with groups sharing recommendations on Friday. ESGIs are internationally recognised for generating impactful, cost-effective insights, with technical reports produced after each event, see previous examples. Organisations interested in submitting a challenge, and researchers wishing to participate, can contact the organisers at esgi195@exeter.ac.uk.
Exeter Grounds Team Horticulture Development Workshop
The Horticulture Development Workshop is taking place on Wednesday 12th August from 09:00- 16:00 in the Pearson Teaching Room, Building One, University of Exeter Streatham Campus.
Led by the University of Exeter Grounds team, this practical one-day course will introduce participants to plant care, soil management and environmentally responsible gardening. The workshop will explore the scientific principles behind successful horticulture, including plant identification, naming conventions and the characteristics of annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees. Attendees will also learn essential maintenance skills such as watering, feeding, pruning and pest management.
Tea and coffee will be provided. Please bring your own lunch or purchase refreshments on campus. Book your place
Love Local Food Festival 2026
The Love Local Food Festival returns to Exeter Castle on Saturday 15th August for a vibrant, family-friendly celebration of the region’s food and drink. Hosted by Greendale, this free event (no tickets required) will showcase over 80 local producers alongside street food, live music, a traditional bar, cocktails, and children’s activities. Visitors can enjoy talks, tastings, and demonstrations exploring the best of the local food scene, from artisan cheeses to sweet treats. With plenty to discover, the festival offers a lively day out celebrating Devon’s rich culinary culture and community spirit. See more here https://greendalefoodfestival.com/
Conference on Food and National Security
The UK’s first Conference on Food and National Security will take place in London on Tuesday 8th September 09:00, hosted by Ark and Farm Gate. Bringing together leaders from government, industry, and academia, the event will explore how resilient food systems and healthy soils underpin national security. Discussions will address immediate geopolitical pressures alongside long-term transformation, including food sovereignty, agroecological resilience, and supply chain stability. Participants will consider how to secure diverse, affordable nutrition while supporting rural economies and environmental regeneration. Register your interest to receive programme updates and ticket information https://ark.artsvp.com/ee1d55.
Environmental Intelligence 2026 Conference @ University of Exeter
EI26 will bring together leading minds in environmental science, data and AI to drive real-world impact. Join interdisciplinary researchers, innovators and practitioners on Monday 7th- Wednesday 9th September to explore how environmental intelligence can help address sustainability challenges and support decision-making at scale.
The three-day, in person event, will include a range of invited speakers, contributed presentations, panel discussions, early-career events and social interaction. For more information and to register visit https://www.environmentalintelligence2026.org/
CRPR Seminar: Participatory Needs Assessment for Salinity-Resilient Agricultural Systems
Join the Centre for Rural Policy Research on Friday 11th September 10:45–12:15 in the Byrne House Seminar Room or via TEAMS LINK (Meeting ID: 328 437 660 150 613
Passcode: 68j5KE7K) for a CRPR seminar presented by Dr Hannah Mortimer and Dr Katarzyna (Kate) Negacz from the Institute for Environmental Studies, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Their research explores how participatory approaches can support salinity-resilient agriculture across Europe and North Africa. Drawing on stakeholder engagement in six countries, the study identifies key barriers and opportunities for adopting nature-based solutions, including the need for practical guidance, improved governance, stronger collaboration, and greater support for long-term adaptation to increasing soil salinisation.
SIEF 25th International Ethnological Food Research Conference
Join the Institute of Slovenian Ethnology (SIEF) Food Research Group from 15th –18th September for its 25th International Ethnological Food Research Conference, Food Encounters: Emplacement and Ethics in Everyday Life. The conference explores how everyday food practices shape sociability, ethics, identity, heritage, and sustainability in a rapidly changing world. From shared meals and urban food spaces to ideological debates around tradition, climate-conscious diets, and food politics, the programme brings together rich ethnographic perspectives from across Europe and beyond. The event will take place fully in person in Ljubljana, Slovena. Conference fees will not exceed €100, with reduced rates available for some participants. Follow the conference website for more information https://www.siefhome.org/wg/fr/events
Exeter Food is keen to support members in the development of research proposals. If you have an idea that you would like to explore in a “sandpit” with colleagues and potential partners, or a draft proposal on which you would like feedback from colleagues, please contact the network lead, Harry G West.
Exeter Food Agritech Interests Register
The Exeter Food (EF) Research Network is establishing a register of members with interests in agritech in order to facilitate networking and enable rapid responses to future funding calls.
If you have research interests that involve any forms of agri‑tech, please take a few minutes to complete the Exeter Food: Agritech Survey – Fill in form. Your input will support collaboration and future opportunities. Please share this link with colleagues who may be interested. For questions, contact Exeter Food Lead Harry West h.g.west@exeter.ac.uk
Opportunity: Part-time CEI Social Media Coordinator (Maternity Cover)
The Centre for Environmental Intelligence is seeking a part-time Social Media Coordinator to provide six months’ maternity leave cover. This is a great opportunity for a PGR student interested in environmental research, communications and public engagement. The role involves supporting CEI’s social media activity, creating content and undertaking basic image editing, with an average commitment of 2–3 hours per week. The successful candidate should be available to start in early to mid-August and be eligible for payment on an hourly-rate basis. To apply, please send a 100-word statement outlining your suitability and interest to cei@exeter.ac.uk by Friday 10th July. Please share with anyone who may be interested.
Register Your Interest: Government–University Pairing Scheme
Applications are open for the third cohort of the Government-University Pairing Scheme, delivered in collaboration with the Government Office for Science and supported by Durham University and UCL.
The year-long programme brings together university and government professionals to build relationships, share knowledge and strengthen research and policy engagement. Open to participants at any career stage, including academics, professional services staff, policy professionals and technical specialists, the scheme offers opportunities for regular partner meetings, reciprocal learning activities and networking with the wider cohort.
Those interested in knowledge mobilisation and fostering stronger government-university connections are encouraged to register their interest via this form by Saturday 17th July.
ESRC Festival of Social Science 2026: Call for Applications
Applications are now open for the ESRC Festival of Social Science (Saturday 17th October – Saturday 7th November 2026). This year’s theme, “Money, Finance and the Cost of Living,” sits alongside a wide range of topics within the ESRC remit. Grants of up to £1,000 are available to support in-person, online, or hybrid public engagement events, including talks, exhibitions, performances, and workshops. Open to colleagues and PhD students, the festival offers free training and marketing support for successful applicants. Please read the applicant guidance before applying. The deadline for submissions is Monday 20th July. Apply here. Email esrcfestival@exeter.ac.uk with questions.
Centre for Environmental Intelligence Links with AI4Nature Alliance
The University of Exeter’s new Centre for Environmental Intelligence (CEI) is developing links with the AI4Nature Alliance, a collaborative initiative involving organisations such as Natural England, ARUP and AIDash that promotes the responsible use of artificial intelligence to support nature recovery and restoration. The Alliance is expected to contribute a panel session at the University’s Environmental Intelligence Conference in September, with further collaboration opportunities under discussion. AI4Nature is also seeking academic participation in four working groups covering AI applications and standards, case studies, open data, and education and training. Interested colleagues should contact Tom Nicholson (Exeter Innovation) for further information.
British Academy Mid-Career Fellowships Open for Applications
The British Academy is inviting applications for its Mid-Career Fellowships, supporting outstanding researchers in the humanities and social sciences. The scheme enables successful applicants to dedicate 6–12 months to a major research project, free from regular duties, while promoting public engagement. Awards are assessed on research quality and communication potential, with funding up to £152,000 at 80% Full Economic Costing. Applicants are typically within 15 years of their doctorate or equivalent experience. The deadline is Wednesday 26th August. For more information and to apply visit https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/funding/schemes/mid-career-fellowships.
Call for Papers: Children and Young People’s Food Practices in Organisational Settings
Researchers are invited to contribute to a forthcoming special issue of Children & Society on “Children and Young People’s Food Practices in Organisational Settings: the potential of ‘anchor institutions’ for promoting inclusivity.” Guest edited by Rebecca O’Connell, Claire Thompson, Cecilia Olsson and Maria Waling, the issue explores how institutions such as schools, hospitals and universities can support children’s health, wellbeing, participation and inclusion through food. Contributions are welcomed from a range of disciplines, particularly those addressing inequality, sustainability, care and policy, including research from under-represented global contexts. Abstract deadline: Monday 31st August 2026. Full details are here https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/page/journal/10990860/call-for-papers/si-2026-000745
Get Ready to Apply for Sustainable Farming Incentive 2026
Farmers and land managers in England are being encouraged to prepare for the launch of the Sustainable Farming Incentive 2026 (SFI26). The scheme supports sustainable land management practices that benefit the environment, support food production and improve productivity.
The first application window opened in June 2026 for eligible small farms and businesses without existing Environmental Land Management agreements, with a second window opening in September 2026 for all eligible applicants. SFI26 agreements can be worth up to £100,000 per year, making this an important opportunity for the farming community. Read more here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sustainable-farming-incentive-2026-sfi26/get-ready-to-apply-for-sfi26#about-the-sustainable-farming-incentive
Abstracts Open: International Conference on Rehabilitation of Agriculture and Food Systems
Al-Azhar University-Gaza will host the First International Scientific Conference on Rehabilitation of Agriculture and Food Systems (CRAFS1) on Saturday 5th – Sunday 6th December 2026. Entitled “Gaza's Food System: From Systematic Destruction to Recovery, Resilience, and Sovereignty,” the conference will bring together researchers, practitioners and policymakers to explore pathways for rebuilding agricultural and food systems in Gaza. Established in 1991, Al-Azhar University-Gaza is a leading independent Palestinian institution committed to academic excellence, innovation and sustainable development. The conference aims to foster dialogue on recovery, resilience, food sovereignty and the future of sustainable food systems. The deadline for abstract submission is Saturday 26th September 2026. Visit the website for full details https://www.alazhar.edu.ps/CRAFS/index.asp
Developing Business-Aware Academics: Researcher Visit to Mastek
Researchers and PhD students are invited to join a workplace visit and networking opportunity at Mastek UK Head Office, Reading, on Thursday 8th October. Hosted through the Developing Business Aware Academics (DBAA) project, the event will explore the future of digital health identity, including UK health policy, healthcare regulation, clinician and patient perspectives, and international approaches to digital identity systems. Attendees will gain valuable insight into industry challenges, discuss their research with Mastek professionals, and identify opportunities for future collaboration. Participation is free, lunch is provided, and travel costs will be covered. Places are limited—sign up today.
Funding Support for Applications to Policy Engagement Schemes
The University of Exeter Policy Engagement team, together with partners Showrunner Communications, are available to provide Exeter researchers with bespoke support during your applications to either of these two policy engagement opportunities below.
- ESRC React Awards (closes Thursday 8th October 2026)
- Parliament's Thematic Research Leads scheme (due to open soon).
The support can be requested by applicants from any department, or career stage via their sign-up form. For more information, please contact policyengagement@exeter.ac.uk.
Call for Papers: International Conference on Food Studies 2026
Proposals are still being accepted for the 16th International Conference on Food Studies, taking place Saturday 10th– Monday 12th October 2026 at the University of Osaka, Japan. Under the special focus “Living with Water: Food and Life,” the conference will explore sustainability, nutrition, health, and food cultures through global perspectives. Featuring leading scholars including Ken Albala and Takakazu Yumoto, the event offers opportunities for in-person or online participation, networking, and publication in Food Studies: An Interdisciplinary Journal. Join an international community shaping the future of food research— visit the conference website for more information and details of how to apply.
2026 CHNY Scholars’ Grants Opportunity
Applications are now open for the 2026 Culinary Historians of New York (CHNY) Scholars’ Grants, supporting outstanding research in culinary history. Funded by the Julia Child Foundation, three awards of $3,500, $2,500, and $1,500 will be granted to individuals aged 18 and over. Since 2012, these grants have supported projects leading to books, articles, films, and other scholarly outputs. Funds may be used for research expenses, conferences, and related activities. The application deadline is Friday 21st August, with awards announced in November. Details and application forms are available on the CHNY website here: https://www.culinaryhistoriansny.org/scholars-grant/.
EUGLOH Opportunity: Exeter Affiliated Partner Engagement
The University of Exeter has joined the European University Alliance for Global Health as an Affiliated Partner, opening opportunities for collaboration in addressing global health challenges. EUGLOH brings together leading institutions to develop innovative, interdisciplinary, and transnational solutions while training the next generation of global health experts. Colleagues are invited to complete a short survey (approx. 10 minutes) to help identify links between Exeter’s research, education, and innovation activities and EUGLOH priorities. Your input will support future engagement. For queries, contact the Global Partnerships team S.Westhead@exeter.ac.uk and R.Short@exeter.ac.uk.
Dig in with Veg Heads
Veg Heads is a friendly volunteer group run by the University of Exeter's Grounds team, which helps with the ongoing maintenance of a vegetable garden and produce for the University's kitchens. Sessions are every other Thursday, 10:00–12:00 from April to September, at the Grounds veg garden at the top of Streatham Campus - what3words: ///bills.ages.coins. No gardening experience is needed - just enthusiasm, curiosity, and a willingness to get your hands a little muddy. All tools, guidance, and plenty of garden chat are provided. Come along, meet new people, and help the garden thrive. View upcoming dates and book your place
Open-Sourced Agricultural AI Ecosystem – Expertise Needed!
The University of Exeter’s Nature & Climate Impact Team in partnership with the Institute of Applied Artificial Intelligence & Robotics (IAAIR), is developing OpenAg, an open-sourced agricultural AI ecosystem. Using Small Agricultural Language Models (SALMs), knowledge graphs, and multi-agent reasoning, OpenAg transforms real-world farming data into practical, context-aware decision support. The team seeks Exeter Food Network experts in crops, livestock, soil, and value chains to help shape knowledge bases, define farm use cases, and ground models in lived practice. Join this international effort to co-design explainable agricultural intelligence that empowers farmers and strengthens global food system resilience. Contact: j.ayers@exeter.ac.uk Research Impact Fellow for more information.
Applications Open: Food Politics in the Global South- Nature Collection
This Collection explores how power, conflict and negotiation shape food systems across the Global South. Food politics intersects with global inequality, climate change, urbanisation and trade, raising urgent questions of sovereignty, justice and sustainability. Recent research highlights structural dependence within global food systems, alongside struggles over food sovereignty, governance and certification. Contemporary challenges—corporate consolidation, climate disruption, market volatility and nutrition transitions—make food a critical lens for understanding development, democracy and livelihoods. Critical, interdisciplinary contributions are invited that examine these dynamics, amplify voices from the Global South, and explore pathways towards more equitable and sustainable food systems. The Submission deadline is Thursday 22nd October. Full details and submission guidelines are available here https://www.nature.com/collections/ighcaihiec/guest-editors
Food and Religion in Europe (18th–20th Centuries): Call for Papers
Proposals are invited for the 18th International Commission for Research into European Food History (ICREFH) Symposium, taking place in Toruń, Poland, from 7th – 10th September 2027. Hosted by Nicolaus Copernicus University, this Food History Conference explores the complex relationships between food and religion from the eighteenth century to the present. Topics include religious dietary practices, identity, politics, and modern food movements. Researchers are encouraged to submit abstracts (max 300 words) and a short CV to icrefh@gmail.com by Sunday 1st November 2026. The event brings together leading international scholars to examine how religious traditions continue to shape food systems, culture, and society across Europe and beyond.
Science in Parliament - Call for Submissions
Science in Parliament are looking for articles to include in their winter edition, due to be circulated with Parliamentary and Scientific Committee members, and all MPs and Peers. One page articles should not exceed 600 words, and two-page articles should not exceed 1400 words. The deadline for submissions is Friday 20th November. For more information, contact policyengagement@exeter.ac.uk.
Starting a new project or applying for funding? Tag Exeter Food in WorkTribe
If your project benefits from your membership of this network, for example through funding, advice, collaboration, or engagement, tagging Exeter Research Networks in Worktribe highlights the network's value, leading to more support and growth, ensures recognition and further strengthens the network's capacity to assist its members.
This is very simple to do and will enable us to track the bids and projects which may arise directly or indirectly as a result of network membership. Very brief guidance is available here. Thank you.
Explore PIVOT-RP: get personalised alerts for research funding opportunities
Research funding opportunities can be found on Pivot-RP. As part of ongoing work to develop university-wide support two curated Pivot-RP searches have been set up for fellowship applicants and active fellows that can be readily accessed and tailored to individual's needs. Guidance on how to do this can be found on the RIME Sharepoint site.
Discover Exeter-facing Funding Opportunities with Funding Finder
Funding opportunities can also be found using the Funding Finder platform developed by Andy Cunliffe at the University of Exeter, which signposts hundreds of funding opportunities for research, fieldwork, conferences, and exchanges, relevant to individuals at all levels from undergraduates to senior academics. With thousands of easily searchable listings of awards from £100 to £10 million, it's designed to support global collaboration and research engagement. Please use it and share it with your networks. Over 4,600 users from 99 countries have used the tool and more awards are being added frequently.
Exeter Food Seminar: Anna Taylor – National Food Strategy Resources
The Exeter Food Research Network hosted students, and partners at a seminar with Anna Taylor, Executive Director of The Food Foundation. Titled “Ambitions for the National Food Strategy” Taylor outlined priorities for the UK’s food strategy, including a proposed Good Food Bill to support healthier diets, environmental sustainability, and resilience. The talk explored policy and political challenges in building leadership for meaningful reform, and highlighted how academic research could shape effective. The event took place on Tuesday 19th May 16:00–17:30. A recording and copy of the slides are available from the Exeter Food Members area or here https://vimeo.com/1198096109?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci
Third Exeter Food Network Mezze Seminar- Resources
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the third Exeter Food Mezze Seminar of the 2025–26 academic year, held online on Tuesday 5th May. The session brought together colleagues from across the University for a lively mix of short taster talks, showcasing diverse food‑related research and prompting rich discussion. We heard from Raquel Revuelta Iniesta on prehabilitation in childhood cancer, Skylar Collins on fishermen’s mental wellbeing, Wim van Daele on food, migration and gut microbiomes in Bhutan, and Suchith Anand and Kate Bailey on digital feudalism in farming. The seminar recording and shared resources are available from the Exeter Food SharePoint Mezze - 5 May 2026.
New Podcast Series Explores the Hidden Costs of Our Food System
A new six-part podcast series, Edible Empire, was launched last month as part of the Planet Pulse Pacific podcast. Hosted by Ben Eitelberg, Emma Strutt and Dr Neal Haddaway, the series examines the concept of food imperialism and the social, environmental and economic impacts of global food production and consumption. Featuring leading international contributors, including Raj Patel and Harriet Friedmann, the podcast explores how food systems shape inequality, environmental degradation and sustainability challenges worldwide. Through thought-provoking discussions, Edible Empire highlights opportunities for creating fairer, more resilient food systems in the face of climate and global health crises. Visit https://planetpulsepacific.buzzsprout.com/ for episodes.
Routes to Regen: New Guide Offers Practical Inspiration for Farmers
Farmers worldwide are exploring new ways to build resilient, sustainable businesses, from improving soil health and integrating livestock to adopting agroforestry and regenerative farming practices. To support this journey, the Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE) and the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust have launched Routes to Regen, a free-to-download Bitesize Guide. Drawing on Nuffield Scholar research from across the globe, the guide shares practical insights, case studies and real-world experiences from diverse farming systems. It also includes links to full reports, helping farmers and rural professionals explore regenerative agriculture and identify ideas relevant to their own businesses. Explore the guide here https://www.rase.org.uk/reports/.
Great South West Launches Ambitious Agrifood Growth Plan
The Great South West Partnership has unveiled a new Agrifood Growth Plan at Westminster, setting out a bold vision for strengthening UK food security and driving sustainable growth. Launched in Parliament, the strategy highlights the region’s vital contribution—producing 11% of England’s agricultural output and supporting 320,000 jobs. The plan outlines priorities to boost productivity, innovation, and resilience across farming, fishing, and food sectors. Backed by industry, academic, and policy leaders, it positions the South West as a national powerhouse for agrifood. Partners will now work with Government and investors to turn this vision into action. Read the plan here https://greatsouthwest.co.uk/agrifood-growth-plan-westminster/
Land Use Framework Policy Paper Published
The UK government Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs has published the first Land Use Framework for England, setting out how land can be used more effectively to strengthen the resilience of homes, communities, infrastructure and food systems, while supporting development and restoring nature. Published on 18th March 2026, the framework responds to a The Land Use Framework builds on the Land Use Consultation public consultation held from January to April 2025. It presents a long-term vision for England’s future landscapes, principles to guide land-use decisions, and actions to support change in partnership with others. The framework will be updated every five years to reflect new evidence, data and progress. The policy paper is now available to download https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/land-use-framework
‘Led By Farmers’: New Report Proposes Basic Income Pilot for South Devon Agriculture
Farmers, growers and food producers in South Devon have released a report proposing a community-designed Basic Income for Farmers pilot. Developed through the Led By Farmers project, the proposal is the result of collaboration between local food producers, researchers, academics and campaigners across the South Devon bioregion. The report outlines how regular, unconditional payments could improve livelihoods, reduce income insecurity and support more sustainable farming systems. Funded by the Mustardseed Trust, the project was supported by Basic Income 4 Farmers, the University of Bath, Bowden Pillars Future and Basic Income Conversation. Together, the partners set out a shared vision for resilient farms, thriving producers and good local food accessible to all. The full report is here https://actionnetwork.org/user_files/user_files/000/139/144/original/basic-income-for-farmers-pilot-for-south-devon-a-community-designed-proposal.pdf
Guidance on Research Dissemination Available on RIME
Practical resources are available on RIME to support effective research dissemination. The guidance offers tutorials, tips, and tools to help you plan strategies that ensure your work reaches the right audiences. Content includes a pre-publication checklist, advice on using academic networks, social media, and engagement events, plus guidance on creating impactful materials such as infographics. It also highlights approaches for engaging policymakers, industry, and other stakeholders.
Effective dissemination boosts research visibility, strengthens academic profiles, supports funding bids, and builds collaborations. Access the resource here: Research Dissemination on RIME.
Let the world know you're a member of the Exeter Food Network
As a member of Exeter Food you can update your university profile to add a ‘label’ which shows that you are a member. Adding this label will provide you with increased visibility (internally and externally) as an Exeter Research Network member, as it will enable your profile to be shared on the network’s online membership lists and search tools.
Adding a network label is quick and easy and there are instructions here.
Exeter Food is coordinated by Professor Harry West
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