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Newsletter: January 2026
Welcome to the January 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!
Contents:
NEWS | EVENTS| OPPORTUNITIES | RESOURCES
Exeter Food Workshop – The Protein Transition
The Exeter Food Network hosted a scoping workshop last month to explore the challenges and possibilities of the global protein transition. Colleagues from across the University shared brief presentations on their research, highlighting scientific, environmental, economic and cultural perspectives on the future of dietary protein. A lively roundtable discussion followed, identifying opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and next steps for developing this emerging research agenda. Slides and recordings from the session are available from the Exeter Food Members’ Area. It’s not too late to contact exeterfood@exeter.ac.uk with any questions or expressions of interest in future activities.
Save the Date for Gather
The Southwest’s Food & Drink Summit, Gather, returns on Wednesday 10th June 2026 in The Forum building, University of Exeter Streatham Campus. Following the success of the inaugural 2025 event, Gather brings together producers, entrepreneurs and industry professionals for a day of insights, innovation and connection. Last year’s summit explored scaling up, sustainability, branding and market trends, equipping businesses to grow and future-proof. Delivered by Food Drink Devon and the Exeter Food Network, with support from key regional partners, Gather 2026 promises another inspiring programme. Tickets go on sale imminently, with further details coming soon. https://fooddrinkdevon.co.uk/gather-event
QUEX Sustainable Food Systems: Opportunities
Thank you to everyone who expressed interest in the QUEX Sustainable Food Systems workshop series. The first workshop, held last month, was a great success, with strong representation from Exeter. We heard an inspiring presentation from Dr Christian Reynolds on food system transformation, followed by discussion and breakout sessions. Four research groups emerged, focusing on community partnerships, protein transition, food quality, and agriculture, with 17 participants in total. Groups are now developing their ideas ahead of the second workshop in February, which will feature speakers from the University of Exeter and the University of Queensland and project updates and a small funding award will be presented in April. For further information or to be involved in future collaborations, contact K.A.Brown@exeter.ac.uk.
Collaboration for a More Resilient Water Future
Water underpins our homes, food systems, energy, and industries — yet growing demand, climate change, and population pressures are straining this vital resource. To address these challenges, the Cross-Sector Water Innovation Network (CSWIN), funded by Ofwat and delivered by Innovate UK, is bringing together innovators, businesses, and end-users from across sectors. This collaborative community aims to accelerate sustainable growth, improve water efficiency, and build resilience through shared innovation and mutual value. By fostering cross-sector partnerships, CSWIN seeks to shape a smarter, more secure water future for the UK’s people, industries, and environment. Visit the Network website for more information. https://iuk-business-connect.org.uk/programme/cross-sector-water-innovation-network
New project to provide historical perspective on contemporary farming challenges
A new University of Exeter project will use 600 years of historical data to shed light on today’s farming challenges. The £1.4m AHRC-funded initiative, Past Harvests, brings together experts in business, history and environmental science to assess the sustainability of farming systems from 1250 to 1850. By analysing manorial records, tenancy agreements, crop yields, and national surveys, the team will generate sustainability scores for four key periods of agricultural change. Researchers hope these insights will support constructive dialogue among farmers, policymakers and stakeholders, offering historical context to guide future land-use decisions and promote more sustainable, collaborative approaches. Visit the Past Harvests website for more information.
Publication in The Conversation: Exploring Rural Devon Cuisine
An article by Dr Paul Cleave (University of Exeter), published in The Conversation uncovers the rich culinary heritage of rural Devon. Drawing on personal experience and research into food and tourism, Cleave highlights traditional dishes such as Devonshire dumplings, teddy cakes, and the famous cream tea, tracing how these seasonal, sustaining foods shaped community life before modern kitchen technology. The piece also reflects on historic cooking practices, from open-hearth preparation to the labour-intensive three-day process of making clotted cream. The full article is available from https://theconversation.com/ website.
Publication: Quantitative Environmental Risk Assessment for Microplastics in Sewage Sludge
Congratulations to Exeter’s Professor Tamara Galloway and colleagues on their paper, “A Quantitative Environmental Risk Assessment for Microplastics in Sewage Sludge Applied to Land.” Published in Environmental Science and Technology, this study provides a comprehensive risk assessment, revealing that current sludge application practices fail to protect 95% of soil biota. Professor Galloway notes that the findings highlight the urgent need for regulatory limits on microplastics in sewage sludge to safeguard soil ecosystems.
Read the full paper here: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.5c08026
If Pollinators Designed Gardens, What Would We See?
Residents of Constantine are helping answer this question by planting a network of living artworks to track the biodiversity benefits of Pollinator Pathmaker, an award-winning artwork designed for pollinators’ tastes. Using an algorithmic planting tool, the project reimagines gardens from the perspective of bees, butterflies and other vital species. Led by the University of Exeter’s Dr Christopher Kaiser-Bunbury, the UKRI-funded collaboration brings together researchers from Exeter, Edinburgh and artist Dr Alexandra Daisy Ginsberg. Featured on BBC Gardners’ World, the project was also showcased in Dr Kaiser-Bunbury’s March 2025 ESI Challenge of the Month talk, available to view online.
Digging into Autumn - Kitchen Garden update
The Kitchen Garden is the result of a partnership between the University’s Campus Services Catering and Grounds Teams’. It was launched to grow fresh produce on campus, reducing food miles and reliance on bought-in goods for our Catering Team. In its first year, the garden supplied seasonal crops for banqueting menus and salads. The team trialled heritage and traditional varieties using sustainable methods, including hydroponics—a soil-free system that optimises water use, accelerates growth, and minimises pests without chemicals. This approach maximises space and reduces waste. For updates and more on its sustainable growing techniques, visit the Kitchen Garden webpage.
Can Mobile Apps Help Us Eat Healthier and More Sustainably?
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity explores whether mobile apps can support behaviour change towards healthier, more sustainable diets. Led by Esther Curtin and colleagues, the study analysed data from 21 studies involving nearly 13,000 participants across high-income countries.
Results showed that app use significantly increased fruit and vegetable consumption and led to a small reduction in meat intake, particularly when message-based content was used. The findings suggest that digital tools could play an important role in encouraging sustainable dietary choices. Read the full paper https://ijbnpa.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12966-025-01823-7
Exeter Food Network Seminar: Dr Lauren Struszczak- The British Nutrition Foundation
Staff and students from all disciplines are invited to a seminar with Dr Lauren Struszczak from the British Nutrition Foundation’. Join us on Thursday 29th January 09:30–10:30 via Teams (Meeting ID: 365 459 494 890 99 Passcode: wK9sj9tg) for “Increasing the visibility and real-world impact of your research with the British Nutrition Foundation.” Dr Struszczak will share practical strategies for translating research into meaningful real-world impact through stakeholder engagement, public involvement, and multi-channel dissemination. Learn how to boost your research’s reach, relevance, and influence across policy, practice, communities, and industry. We hope to see you there!
DBAA–Amazon Academia–Business Networking Event
The University’s Developing Business Aware Academics (DBAA) team is partnering with Amazon UK to deliver an exciting academia–business networking event at Amazon’s UK Headquarters in London. It’s on Wednesday 11th February 13:00–16:00, with an optional building tour from 11:30. Open to doctoral and early-career researchers from all disciplines at the University of Exeter, this free event requires no prior industry experience. The session will explore academic and industry workplace cultures, encourage knowledge exchange, and support meaningful connections through talks, one-to-one conversations, and facilitated round-table discussions focusing on AI, data, innovation, and research culture. There’s more information and a sign up link on the DBAA website.
Second Exeter Food Mezze Seminar
You are warmly invited to the second Exeter Food Mezze Seminar, a series of short “taster” talks designed to showcase university research on food, spark discussion, and generate ideas for future collaboration.
The session will be held online via Teams on Thursday 12th February 2026 9:45–11:15. Each speaker will present for 7–8 minutes, followed by discussion. Presentations include Prof Ayesha Mukherjee on literary geographies of famine in India and Britain, Dr David Studholme on genomics for plant disease management, Dr Aoife Maher on local fruit and vegetable supply chains, and Dr Maria Eugenia Correa Cano on the Water-Energy-Food-Environment nexus in Andean agriculture.
Exeter Food & Environmental Intelligence Research Networks Workshop- Save The Date
Following joint scoping workshops, the Exeter Food and Environmental Intelligence Research Networks are launching the first in a series of events to explore shared research themes.
This event is on Friday 12th June 11:00–15:00 in the Trevithick Room, ESI Building, Penryn Campus. The aims of the day are to share insights, encourage discussion and foster collaboration. The programme will include research presentations, including Professor Ronaldo Menezes and plenty of time for discussion. Please save the date and contact Lorien Jasny or ei-network@exeter.ac.uk for questions. The full programme will follow shortly.
Oxford Food Symposium Kitchen Lab – Sri Owen Remembered
Join the Oxford Food Symposium on Monday 26th January at 17:30 for a free online Kitchen Lab cookalong honouring the late Indonesian food writer and Oxford Food Symposist Sri Owen. Food writers Elisabeth Luard and Petty Elliott will share memories and reflections on Sri’s life, work and hospitality. Together we will cook Sri’s beef rendang and coconut rice, alongside Petty’s fish soup, while revisiting Sri’s role in bringing Indonesian food to global audiences and shaping the Oxford Food Symposium’s shared table. Recipes are provided to registered participants. Reserve your place via the link https://www.oxfordsymposium.org.uk/event/kitchen-lab-meeting-jan26/
Master Class: From Trees to Chocolate Bars
The Center for Food Studies at The American University of Rome will host From Trees to Chocolate Bars: Cacao, Culture, Innovation and Sustainability in a Changing World on 13th-14th May. This day-and-a-half master class examines the global cacao and chocolate value chain, exploring genetics, farming practices, post-harvest processing, quality assessment, policy and market trends. Participants will engage in lectures, case discussions and a guided sensory evaluation, gaining both analytical and hands-on insight. The deadline for applications is 12th
February 2026.
For details and registration visit https://aur.edu/chocolate or contact foodstudies@aur.edu.
The Risks of Digitalisation: Implications for Access to Food in England
Join the Food Studies Centre at the University of London on Thursday 12th February 18:00–20:00, for this event exploring how digitalisation affects access to food for marginalised communities. Taking place online and in person at SOAS University of London, the event will examine how post-2010 digital strategies across welfare, food assistance and local services have reshaped food access. While digital tools promise efficiency, they can also exclude vulnerable groups and intensify food insecurity. Sharing findings from an ESRC-funded research project, speakers will discuss how future food policies can be more inclusive, fair and people-centred. Register here: www.bit.ly/therisksofdigitalisation
Permaculture Design Workshop with Tess Wilmot
Discover how to live and work with nature while reducing energy use and conserving resources at this engaging Permaculture Design Workshop. Grounded in the core ethics of Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share, the session explores the permaculture design process—a practical, adaptable framework for gardens, homes, businesses, and community projects.
On Saturday 21st February 14:00-15:00 at the Emmanuel Hall, Exeter, EX4 1EJ, permaculture designer and facilitator Tess Wilmot will lead hands-on exercises that bring design principles to life. Tess has worked with community gardens since 2008, mainly in Plymouth, supporting growers through co-designed, skill-building projects.
For more information and to book visit https://www.zeromilegardens.co.uk/events
People, Planet, Profit: Demystifying Carbon
Exeter Food are excited to support People, Planet, Profit: Demystifying Carbon. An informative and practical morning for Devon food and drink businesses, it’s taking place at Darts Farm, Topsham, EX3 0QH on Tuesday 24th February 10:00-16:00. Organised by the Devon Food Partnership, with support from Food Drink Devon and Prosper Business Support, the event will focus on decarbonisation and sustainability with clear, applicable guidance. Hear from inspiring local speakers including River Cottage, Two Drifters, Sandford Orchards, NetShift and the University of Exeter, sharing what’s worked for them and how you can take action, save money and stay ahead. Lunch is provided.
Register now: https://Demystifying-carbon.eventbrite.com
DBAA–Babcock Research Challenge Event
The Developing Business Aware Academics (DBAA) team is partnering with Babcock to host a half-day research challenge event in Exeter on Monday 2nd March 11:00–14:00, at the Innovation Hub in Exeter. Babcock has identified four research challenges requiring expertise in Mechatronics, Physics, Metallurgy, Engineering, and Chemical Engineering. Details are available in one-page PDFs via the event webpage. Open to researchers and PhD students, the free event offers opportunities to network with industry, explore collaborative solutions through facilitated round-table discussions, and develop tangible outcomes. Lunch and refreshments will be provided, and the DBAA project can cover travel costs for attending researchers. Visit the event webpage for more information and to sign up.
Save the Date for the Agriculture, Food & Human Values Society 2026 Conference
AFHVS is an international community of scholars, practitioners, and students exploring the ethical, social, and ecological dimensions of food and agriculture. With roots in philosophy, sociology, and anthropology, AFHVS now spans disciplines from nutrition policy to environmental science. Members engage through annual conferences, networking, and the journal Agriculture and Human Values.
To sign up for membership visit the AFHVS website www.afhvs.org and save the date for their 2026 ASFS/AFHVS Conference 7th–10th June at the University of Vermont
Food Poverty – Oxford Food Symposium 2026
The Oxford Food Symposium returns from 10th -12th July at St Catherine’s College, Oxford (UK), with an online programme (TBC). The 2026 theme, Food Poverty, explores how people living with chronic poverty find food, and how “poverty foods” have varied across time, place, and culture—from subsistence farming and foraging to industrial production. With starvation increasingly used as a weapon of war and oppression, this theme is more urgent than ever. The weekend features keynote lectures, parallel paper sessions, curriculum-inspired meals by guest chefs, and social events. Open to all; book early as places are limited. More information and registration is available here
https://www.oxfordsymposium.org.uk/next-symposium/#book-tickets
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.
Opportunity- Food Focused Strand at Environmental Intelligence Conference
The Environmental Intelligence Conference 2026 at the University of Exeter on 7th-9th September and will bring together researchers, practitioners, industry and policymakers to explore how AI and data-driven approaches can address environmental challenges, with a focus on real-world impact, collaboration and responsible innovation.
This year the Exeter Food and Environmental Intelligence Research Networks are developing a food-focused strand exploring how environmental intelligence (EI) can be applied across food systems. Provisional sessions include climate, AI and food systems, large-scale corporate approaches in food and agriculture; and regenerative, small-scale and place-based research and practice. The strand will conclude with a panel discussion on shared challenges, impact opportunities and responsible, public-good use of EI in food systems.
If
you are interested in being involved or have questions, please email h.g.west@exeter.ac.uk or j.harvey10@exeter.ac.uk. A request for abstracts and deadlines will follow shortly.
Costing Exeter Food Network Activities into Grant Applications
Members of Exeter Food can include network activities in funding bids to showcase collaboration and impact. Eligible costs may cover staff time, admin support, co-creation workshops, business and industry stakeholder meetings, seminars, conferences, communications (websites, toolkits, videos), open-access publications, public engagement, or ECR training. Check funder rules—UKRI often allows admin or co-creation costs, while charities may be more restrictive. Demonstrating network involvement shows collaboration, interdisciplinary impact, and added value to your project. For costing guidance, see this guide or email exeterfood@exeter.ac.uk for specific projects. Don’t forget to tag the network in your application!
Researcher Led-Initiative Awards – Last Chance
The Researcher Development and Research Culture (RD&RC) team offers annual funding to support postgraduate researchers and early career research staff. The Researcher Led-Initiative Awards support applicants in designing and delivering innovative professional development activities for peers, building skills and experience for career progression. Awards of up to £2,500 are available for projects, events, and initiatives—whether in-person, hybrid, or online—that have lasting impact. Applications are invited from early career researchers and other research staff, including lecturers, experimental officers, and research software engineers. For more information and to apply visit the Doctoral College Website. Applications close: Friday 23rd January at 12:00
Groundswell Regenerative Agriculture Festival 2026
Groundswell 2026 will take place on Wednesday 1st and Thursday 2nd July. Session applications are open now and close on Saturday 31st January. Organisers are inviting proposals for lectures, seminars, panels, demonstrations, workshops, safaris, walks or innovative session formats. Updated guidelines are available to help applicants shape their ideas. The Session Application Form is now live and previous event sessions can be viewed on the Groundswell YouTube channel. Anyone interested in contributing in other ways is encouraged to contact the Groundswell team contact@groundswellag.com.
Call for Abstracts: Routledge Handbook on Critical Food Systems Planning
Abstracts are invited for the Routledge Handbook on Critical Food Systems Planning, which brings together interdisciplinary scholarship and practice from the Global North and South. The volume explores how food systems are planned, governed, and contested, with a focus on justice, sovereignty, sustainability, and health. Critical theoretical, epistemological, policy-focused, and place-based contributions are welcomed, including work by early-career scholars, practitioners, and academic–community collaborations. Abstracts of up to 150 words are due by Sunday 1st February, with invited chapters due by Saturday 1st August. There’s more information here https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/routledge-handbook-critical-food-systems-planning-samina-raja-ul6ze/ or email foodsystems@ap.buffalo.edu.
Second Joint Transnational Co-funded Call: Accelerating Food Sustainability
Future Foods Partnership has launched its Second Joint Transnational Co-funded Call, inviting researchers and innovators to propose projects that speed the shift toward sustainable food systems. The call targets three priority areas: promoting healthy, sustainable diets through household-level change; advancing diverse and circular food processing systems; and strengthening trust and transparency through better tools, metrics and labelling. Pre-proposals are due Wednesday 11th February, with full proposals on 27th July (invitation only). For more information and to apply, visit https://www.futurefoodspartnership.eu/
Climate Action Fund: Food Systems
The National Lottery Community Fund has opened applications to its Climate Action Fund – Food Systems programme, supporting ambitious projects that strengthen food systems and reduce food insecurity across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Grants of £2.5–£7 million are available for long-term, partnership-led projects that use agroecological approaches and deliver systems change. Funded work should improve how food is grown, distributed and accessed, with a strong focus on equity and community involvement. Projects must demonstrate lasting environmental impact, increased access to healthy, affordable food and clear plans to measure and share learning. Most projects will run 5–7 years, with decisions expected in 39 weeks.
Webinar: register here https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/funding-programmes/climate-action-fund-food-systems/join-our-webinar for the webinar on Tuesday 17th February 13:00-14:15
Beyond Green: Quantifying the Profitability of Regenerative Sheep Farming
This fully funded PhD offers a unique opportunity to explore the profitability of regenerative sheep farming in New Zealand. Based at Lincoln University New Zealand, the project compares regenerative and conventional systems, addressing a critical evidence gap for farmers and policymakers. Using quantitative data from the Regenerative Agricultural Dryland Experiment, the research will analyse operating profit, financial resilience, transition costs and long-term returns, alongside bioeconomic modelling and there is space for the student to help shape the project around their interests. Ideal candidates will have a strong research background, an interest in farm financial analysis and a desire to live and work in New Zealand. For more information contact Victoria.westbrooke@lincoln.ac.nz
New OIRC–BBSRC Consumer Lab Funding Now Open
The Consumer Lab team has announced that all OIRC–BBSRC Consumer Lab funding streams are now open. These opportunities support collaborative academic–industry research projects and placements focused on human dietary behaviour.
Applications are encouraged that align with Consumer Lab’s four research challenges: developing ecologically valid methods, reaching seldom-heard communities, understanding the drivers of food choice, and increasing sustainable dietary behaviour. High risk/high reward and translational projects are welcomed.
Funding is available through Flexible Mobility Awards (up to £100k), Business Interaction Vouchers (up to £50k), and Feasibility Awards (up to £100k) to support and strengthen industry partnerships. Industry partners are required to match fund.
Deadlines: EoIs for Business Interaction Vouchers and Feasibility Awards close Friday 27th February, with full applications due Friday 24th April. Flexible Mobility Awards are open on a rolling basis. For more information, please contact g.mendham@exeter.ac.uk
The Sophie Coe Prize 2026 – Now Open for Entries
Entries are now invited for the 2026 Sophie Coe Prize, the longest-running and most generous award for writing on food history in English. Open to published or recently written unpublished work of up to 10,000 words, the prize recognises original, insightful research on any aspect of food history. The winner, announced at the Oxford Food
Symposium, (10th – 12th July 2026), will receive up to £1,500. Writers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Entries are due by Friday 24th April.
Further details are available on the website or by contacting sophiecoeprize@gmail.com.
Nuffield Foundation Strategic Fund – Call for Proposals
The Nuffield Foundation’s Strategic Fund is offering up to £15 million to support transformative ideas addressing major themes in UK public policy. Grants of £1–3 million are available for projects that combine rigorous research with clear impact, particularly those that are multidisciplinary, experimental, or innovative. Proposals should respond to one or more of the Foundation’s five priorities: prosperity and fairness; inclusion in a changing society; science and technology for people; climate change and society; and effective, trustworthy institutions.
The next deadline is Monday 16th March. Find out more: Strategic Fund | Apply for Funding | Nuffield Foundation
ML4EO Conference 2026: Abstract Submissions Now Open
Abstract submissions are now open for the Machine Learning for Earth Observation (ML4EO) Conference 2026. The three-day conference will take place at the University of Exeter (Streatham Campus) from Monday 22nd to Wednesday 24nd June. Researchers and practitioners are invited to submit abstracts for both oral and poster
presentations by Tuesday 31st March, with acceptance notifications issued by Friday 1st May. Submissions are welcomed across AI, machine learning, remote sensing and environmental monitoring, reflecting the rapid growth and interdisciplinary nature of the field.
Find submission guidance and apply at: https://ml4eo.org/call-for-abstracts/
Recordings from ML4EO 2025 are still available from the ML4EO YouTube Channel.
Interested in tracking your food intake for one week and earning £10 in Amazon vouchers?
Participants are sought for a study exploring how tracking food intake influences eating behaviours. Over a 7-day period, participants will be asked to use either a new AI-supported food tracking app or a daily diary. You will be invited to enjoy two free buffet lunches and complete an online survey at the start and end of the 7-day tracking period. In addition to these buffet lunches, participants will also receive £10 in Amazon vouchers and gain free access to the Fueld.ai food tracking app, worth £39.99/ year. Interested? More info and study sign up is available here: http://tiny.cc/jsavzz or contact natalia.lawrence@exeter.ac.uk.
New Funding Call: Alternative Proteins (NAPIC CPF II)
The National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre (NAPIC) has launched a new round of Collaborative Programme Funding (CPF II) to support UK research and innovation in alternative proteins.
Up to £2 million is available, with grants ranging from £5,000 to £100,000 for collaborative projects led by UK‑eligible research organisations working with industry or other partners. Industry partners are required to match‑fund the grant value.
Funding supports activities including proof‑of‑concept research, demonstration projects, innovation sprints, networking, and mobility awards across plant‑based, microbial, cultivated, insect, and fermentation‑enabled proteins.
The deadline for submissions is Friday 17th April. Find out more and apply via the NAPIC website.
Call for Submissions – Petits Propos Culinaires
Petits Propos Culinaires (PPC) is an international journal dedicated to food, food history, cookery, and cookery books. Founded in 1979 by Alan and Jane Davidson, Elizabeth David, Jill Norman, and Richard Olney, PPC continues to welcome original submissions on all aspects of culinary culture worldwide.
Articles typically range from 7,000–8,000 words, though shorter and longer pieces are also considered. The journal also features photo-essays, field reports, food memoirs, and documentary notes by invitation.
Initial enquiries should be directed to Sam Bilton at editor.petitspropos@prospectbooks.co.uk
Full author guidelines and submission portal: https://journal.equinoxpub.com/ppc/about/submissions.
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.
Global Launch of Earth Rover Program and Soilsmology Report
On World Soil Day (5th December 2025), the Earth Rover Program marked its global launch with the release of its inaugural report, Soilsmology: Transforming Our Understanding of Soil. The online event featured a panel discussion on how the emerging science of “soilsmology” is reshaping our understanding of soil health, moderated by co-founder and Guardian columnist George Monbiot. Earth Rover Program is a non-profit developing scalable, non-invasive technologies that combine seismology, novel sensors and AI to map soil health. Working with scientists, researchers and farmers across three continents, the initiative aims to strengthen global food security and climate resilience. The report is available at: https://www.earthroverprogram.org/about/report and a recording of the webinar is https://youtu.be/wfrEBbmviu0?si=cYTrEsJpWeickyGq
Net Gain or Net Drain?
A new citizen-inspired report from the Food, Farming & Countryside Commission explores the true value of the UK’s agri-food industry. Net Gain or Net Drain?, authored by Dolly van Tulleken and Hannah Haggie with analysis from Cambridge Econometrics, challenges the familiar claim that big food companies boost the economy through jobs and investment. Instead, it examines the hidden social, environmental and economic costs embedded in the current system. Building on FFCC’s Food Conversation, the report proposes a fresh value framework to assess the performance of the whole agri-food sector and the impact of its most influential corporations. Read the report https://ffcc.co.uk/publications/
Living with the Planet
The British Academy’s autumn season Living with the Planet highlights new research on climate action and more connected, sustainable ways of living. This month, Dr Paul Behrens discusses how everyday choices can drive change. He emphasises that individuals “vote three times a day” through their food choices, with science showing that eating more plants benefits both the planet and our health. Behrens also champions “policy sequencing” — gradual reforms that make larger shifts possible, as seen in Denmark’s efforts to rebalance food systems. Though he feels hope more than optimism, he believes decisive climate action will ultimately mean cleaner air, water and healthier lives for all. Watch Paul and others discuss the Future of Food sustainability at a recent British Academy event.
Exeter Food Mezze Seminar – Thank You for Joining Us!
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year’s first Exeter Food Mezze Seminar—a mixed menu of taster talks exploring diverse food-related research across the university. These seminars provide a space to connect with colleagues, exchange ideas, and inspire future collaborations.
Speakers included Cassandra Lowe (Psychology) on why we struggle to resist “junk foods,” Semih Celik (History) on nineteenth-century Ottoman agricultural reforms, Tiago de Melo Cartaxo (Law) on food policy innovation, and Eve Kasprzycka (UBC/Exeter) on multispecies justice in salmon farming.
A recording and slides are available via the Exeter Food Network members area Mezze - 23 October 2025
Webinar recording: Unearthing Empire – Food, Land and Colonial Legacies in the UK
This webinar was hosted by Sustain and explores the lasting impacts of the British Empire on food systems in the UK. Presented by Culture Roots Collective, Roots to Work and Eating Better, the session examined how colonialism disrupted Indigenous food systems, reshaped diets, and embedded exploitation into modern supply chains. Hosted by Roshni Shah, Diversity Outreach Coordinator at Sustain, speakers included Dr Corinne Fowler, author of Green and Unpleasant Land, and Naomi Terry, author of Jumping Fences. The webinar combined historical insight and storytelling to envision decolonised food futures. A recording is available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scOMnb0DB9U
Podcast: Food From the Valley – Tamar Grow Local
In this episode of Nature Connects, host Ginnette Sutherland explores the Tamar Valley during British Food Fortnight, highlighting the work of Tamar Grow Local. Listeners are taken to Wheal Farm, where pasture-raised chickens and fresh vegetables showcase local food systems that reconnect communities with nature and their food. The podcast explores initiatives that nourish bodies, restore biodiversity, and build resilience—from community cook-ups to hedgehog-friendly gardens. Whether you’re a gardener, foodie, or nature enthusiast, this episode celebrates the transformative power of growing, sharing, and cooking local food. Listen again here: https://tamarvalleynationallandscape.podbean.com/e/food-from-the-valley/ .
Journal Article: Increasing Inequality in Agri-Food Value Chains (1995–2020)
A new analysis reveals growing inequality across global agri-food value chains. From 1995 to 2020, agricultural production for food and industrial inputs has increasingly shifted to the global South, while post-farm activities in the global North capture a growing share of food-system income.
The study also finds that a significant proportion of income is now retained in low-tax jurisdictions with little agricultural production. These findings highlight how globalisation and market concentration continue to shape unequal value distribution in food systems worldwide.
Read more: Increasing inequality in agri-food value chains: global trends from 1995–2020
Food Foundation Report: Roadmap to Reducing Food Insecurity in the UK
The Food Foundation has published a new report, Roadmap to Reducing Food Insecurity in the UK, highlighting that one in ten UK households (11.3%) still experience food insecurity. While levels have fluctuated over the past five years, the report shows that government policy choices can quickly reduce or worsen the problem. The report explores the scale of food insecurity, identifies who is most at risk, and provides guidance for policymakers and local authorities on targeting support effectively. Read the full report here.
Laying the Foundation: A Fair Food Strategy
A new report, Laying the Foundation, calls for fairness at the heart of the UK’s developing Food Strategy. Produced by the Citizen Advisory Council (CAC) (made up of Food Foundation Ambassadors and Food Farming and Countryside Commission), the report sets out priorities including learning from what works, addressing root problems, and creating incentives for change.
Earlier this year, the 20-member CAC – representing diverse regions and backgrounds – observed government workshops and ran their own citizen sessions to gather views on food policy. Members bring lived experience from the Food Conversation and Food Ambassador programmes. Next, the CAC will investigate successful local initiatives to inform national policy. Read the news story and Download the report.
The Local Food Plan – Growing the UK’s Local Food Future
Local food is powerful — it can feed us in a crisis, strengthen local economies, and create thriving communities. Yet the sector faces major challenges to growth. Hence the Local Food Plan, developed by a collaboration of organisations as an ambitious roadmap to unlock the sector’s potential.
After consulting over 500 local food actors, they identified four key shifts and 31 actions to help local food systems scale up sustainably.
Discover how we can grow together: read the Executive Summary and the Local Food Growth Plan online and learn how to get involved in shaping a resilient food future. Contact info@localfoodplan.org with any questions.
Discover the Exeter Innovation Ideas Hub
The Exeter Innovation Ideas Hub is a dedicated SharePoint site designed to support academics at any career stage with Knowledge Exchange (KE) and Business Engagement (BE). Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen existing partnerships, the Hub offers guidance on applying your research beyond academia and working effectively with businesses, government bodies, charities, and NGOs.
Explore the Business Engagement Toolkit and access a wide range of Training, events and resources to support your KE journey. Visit the Ideas Hub to find out more and start building impactful external collaborations. Or Gemma Mendham is our Exeter Food EI link and is happy to answer questions.
New Guidance on Research Dissemination Available on RIME
Practical resources are now 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.
Happy Christmas and New Year's wishes from EF!
Exeter Food is coordinated by Professor Harry West
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