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Newsletter: February 2025
Welcome to the February 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
NEWS
Feeding People in a Crisis: The UK Food System and COVID-19
A team of Exeter researchers, led by Michael Winter and including Exeter Food members, has published a new book examining how the UK food system responded to the challenges of lockdown and pandemic restrictions. Derived from an ESRC-funded project, the book offers a detailed analysis of resilience, vulnerabilities, and adaptations in food supply chains.
Renowned food policy expert Tim Lang recently praised it as “an excellent, nuanced assessment of our food system during COVID, a must-read.” The book is available in Open Access: Read here.
Publication: Locating the Professional Cook: An Historical and Anthropological Perspective
Well done to Jed Hilton, whose article, "Locating the Professional Cook: An Historical and Anthropological Perspective," has been published in History Compass. The article addresses the growing scholarship on food, cooking, and eating, and introduces chefs as a legitimate subject for historical investigation. Hilton argues that no clear theoretical or methodological model has been developed for studying professional cooks, who, when viewed through an anthropological lens, provide insights into broader cultural and social transformations. This work aims to offer clarity on the category of professional cooks and highlight their value for cultural historians. Read the article in full here.
Out of sight, out of mind? Addressing the invisibility of aquatic foods in food systems debates
Congratulations Exeter Food member Giulia Nicolini on the publication of her essay addressing the invisibility of blue foods in food debates. In her work, Nicolini highlights how the physical inaccessibility of aquatic creatures and their habitats leads to cultural invisibility, preventing blue foods from being recognised as key players in food system solutions. Drawing from the Blue Humanities and IIED’s “What about seafood?” paper, Nicolini calls for a re-evaluation of blue foods in the context of food security. The full article is available from the Table Website.
Seeking Your Feedback on the Exeter Food Network
The Central Research Networks team are leading a project to evaluate the outcomes of research network funding and its impact on career development, interdisciplinarity, and collaboration. Key questions include:
- How does the network support researchers' career progression?
- What role does it play in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration?
- How effective is the network in helping overcoming research barriers?
- Can measurable outputs (e.g., publications, collaborations, grants) be linked to the Exeter Food network?
We would love to hear from you about ways the Exeter Food Network have impacted your research. Please email researchnetworks@exeter.ac.uk
EVENTS
Exeter Food Research Network Seminar Professor Alan Kelly- Is there a problem with food processing?
Tuesday, 4th March 16:00-17:30 in Lecture Theatre One, The Queen's Building, Streatham Campus, University of Exeter, and online via Teams.
Exeter Food is pleased to host Professor Alan Kelly, Professor of Food Science and Head of the School of Food and Nutritional Sciences at the University College, Cork. Explore the history, goals, and controversies surrounding food processing, including its role in food safety and public perception. Professor Kelly will delve into the ancient origins of food processing, using dairy products as a case study, and discuss strategies to improve public understanding of food science.
Please register to attend to via this form. The lecture will also be accessible via MS Teams. Please indicate this when you register to receive the link and joining instructions.
The event is open to students and staff— please help spread the word!
Making a life in food: Reflections on careers in the food sector
Monday 10th March at 18:30 in the Alumni Auditorium- the Forum, Streatham Campus, and online via Teams.
Career Zone & Exeter Food are pleased to present Guy Watson (Riverford) and Geetie Singh (The Bull Inn, Totnes)
Geetie Singh-Watson MBE pioneered sustainable hospitality, founding Britain’s first organic pub, The Duke of Cambridge, in 1998. A passionate environmentalist, she banned plastic, air-freighted food, and wasteful practices. Her fourth venture, The Bull Inn, Totnes, embodies eco-consciousness. She also co-runs Baddaford Farm & Collective, promoting ethical, sustainable farming.
Guy Singh-Watson founded Riverford, growing it from a small organic veg delivery service into a national veg box scheme. In 2018, he transitioned Riverford to employee ownership, prioritising ethics over profit. A vocal advocate for sustainability, he challenges supermarket ‘farmwashing’ and champions fair, transparent, and responsible farming practices.
Please register HERE to attend. The lecture will also be accessible via Teams. Please indicate this when you register to receive the link and joining instructions.
Careers in Sustainability & Environment Networking Event
Tuesday 11th March. This is an informal networking event with light refreshments where students interested in a career in sustainability can speak to alumni and employers to find out about their careers paths, how to get into the sector, plus current job opportunities. There will be representatives from a range of organisations, plus stands for student societies, employability schemes, Masters programmes and Exeter Food.
For more information please contact Mel Nearchou m.nearchou@exeter.ac.uk
Centre for Rural Policy Research Seminar Series
The CRPR are pleased to invite you to their upcoming seminar series:
- Elise Wach – Just Common Ground?
19th February 10:45-12:15- Byrne House Seminar Room or via Teams Meeting ID: 380 181 980 16 Passcode: 2DQ3rL7W - Carol Morris & Catherine Price - UK farmer framings of biochar and the challenges of governing land-based greenhouse gas removal
12th March 10:45-12:15- Byrne House Seminar Room or via Teams Meeting ID: 345 007 797 960 Passcode: ja3QV3w6 - Corinna Howland - “Because of one of us, we all lose”: ethical contingency among Peruvian quinoa growers
2nd April 10:45-12:15- Byrne House Seminar Room or via Teams Meeting ID: 328 883 050 019 Passcode: nD3PT7DT - Prof. Mary Brydon-Miller, University of Louisville- Sustainable food systems and community-based development at the Gloucester Gateway Trust
25th June 10:45-12:15 Byrne house seminar room or via Teams Meeting ID: 337 591 463 585 Passcode: 94pU77hM
For more information, please use the links above or contact CRPR@Exeter.ac.uk
British Nutrition Foundation OIRC Webinar – Funding for Collaborative Research in Diet and Health
The BNF invites researchers to a webinar on the Diet and Health Open Innovation Research Club (OIRC) and funding opportunities for collaborative projects driving real-world improvements in diet and health.
Who can apply? UK research organisations and businesses, with projects requiring at least one industry partner.
The key research priorities are: food components and human physiology, biofortification for improved nutrition, determinants of food choice and functional food for health and nutrition across the life course
Register here to join the free webinar on 18th February 14:00-16:30.
Sidmouth Eco Hub soil and sustainability events
Join the Sidmouth Eco Hub for two events highlighting the importance of soil and sustainability.
On Saturday, 22nd February, from 11-11:45 am at the Sidmouth Library, "Super Soil: Discover the Secret World Beneath Our Feet!" invites families to explore the wonders of soil. Led by ecologist Dr. Emma Pilgrim, this interactive session features Roly Poly, the pill woodlouse, from The Science & Spectacle of Soil Life.
Then on Sunday, 2nd March at 7pm, the screening of Six Inches of Soil at Radway Cinema, Sidmouth. This thought-provoking film explores the vital role of soil, followed by a discussion on regenerative farming. A second screening of Wilding on June 8th will also address rewilding efforts.
Gulf Capital, Deficient Deserts, and Empire-making in Central Sudan
25th February 17:00-18:30 via Zoom
Join Dr. Nisrin El Amin (University of Toronto) for an insightful talk on land, empire, and capital in Sudan’s Gezira region. Exploring the khalla—a term for common grazing and farming land—this discussion traces how Gulf Arab land investments reshape everyday life. Drawing from colonial histories and agribusiness expansion, the talk examines both dispossession and resilience in Sudan’s landscapes. Visit the events calendar for more information and to register
Britain’s food security, policy and public health crises: A conversation with Tim Lang
You are invited to this seminar featuring Prof Tim Lang, a leading expert on food security, policy, and public health. Prof Lang, known for his work with the Eat Lancet Commission and influential food security reports, will discuss the UK's food system challenges. The conversation will be chaired by Prof Steffen Boehm.
The event is taking place on 26th February from 4-6pm in the Trevithick Room, Environment & Sustainability Institute, Penryn Campus. Attendance is also available online via Teams Meeting ID: 315 947 653 469 Passcode: PL3i8Fd7
Cornwall Food and Farming Group Conference: Food Security and Resilience
Join the Cornwall Food and Farming Group on Thursday 27th February at The Pavilion, Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge for a conference on Food Security: Resilience in a Changing World. With UK food production under 60% and harvests impacted by extreme weather, rising input costs, and global supply chain risks, this event explores challenges and solutions for Cornwall’s food systems. Key speakers include:
- Prof. Tim Lang, leading expert in food policy.
- Dr. Pete Falloon, specialist in climate-resilient systems.
- Harriet Bell, regenerative farming lead at Riverford.
- Jayne Kirkham MP, DEFRA Select Committee member.
Tickets (£15 + Eventbrite fee, incl. refreshments & buffet lunch) are available on EventBrite.
For more information, contact Ashley Wood at ashley@cornwallfoodandfarming.org
South West Agri Tech Showcase 2025
The South West Agri Tech Showcase returns to Westpoint Exeter, EX5 1DJ for its third year on Thursday, 20th March. The agenda highlights innovation and developments in the South West agricultural sector and includes a range of presentations, workshops, panels and exhibitors, Highlights include a keynote speaker Baroness Minette Batters, a Connectivity and Collaboration Workshop, a Controlled Environment Agriculture panel and exhibits from industry leaders. Attendees are encouraged to network and connect with others in the Agri Tech community. Lunch and refreshments will be provided.
Download the full agenda and register via EventBrite.
FOOD: Beyond the Plate: Exploring Our Relationship with Food – a New Exhibition at RAMM
Exeter’s Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM) presents FOOD: Beyond the Plate, opening 22nd March.
This exhibition delves into the history, culture, and future of food, from ancient tools and dining traditions to modern-day challenges like food scarcity and sustainability.
Featuring interesting objects—from butchering tools and food baskets to Exeter’s own milk cart—the exhibition uncovers how food shapes societies and rituals worldwide and will showcase local communities' food memories and traditions, celebrating Exeter’s rich cultural diversity.
Alongside the exhibition, a programme of events, including craft workshops, a cheese-making session, and a RAMM Lates evening, will offer interactive experiences.
FOOD: Beyond the Plate runs until 29th June. Entry is free. Please visit rammuseum.org.uk for more information.
Beyond Farm to Fork Conference
Tuesday 25th March at the St Luke’s campus.
Are you a University of Exeter PhD student undertaking food-related research?
Whether your project touches on farming or fishing, food consumption or food waste, plant diseases or diet-related health outcomes – if your project is related to food, you are warmly invited to join the Beyond Farm to Fork conference.
This interdisciplinary, one-day event is being organised by PhD students for PhD students and funded through the Researcher-led Initiative Awards. Members of staff and masters students are invited to join for the morning session.
Learn more and register via EventBrite.
Foundations, Evolutions, and Revolutions – CAFS 2025 Annual Assembly
The Canadian Association for Food Studies (CAFS) will host its 19th annual assembly from 2nd-5th June at George Brown College, Toronto. This year’s theme, "Foundations, Evolutions, and Revolutions," will reflect on the history, present challenges, and future directions of food studies in Canada.
The conference will feature a three-day arc of plenary events, exploring the field’s origins, current issues, and future transformations. Sessions will include academic research, community-based initiatives, and interdisciplinary collaborations.
Plans are being developed for virtual participation, so keep an eye on the CAFS website for more information and to register.
OPPORTUNITIES
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.
Diet and Health OIRC 2025 Funding Opportunities- Webinar
The Diet and Health Open Innovation and Research Club (OIRC), funded by BBSRC, has announced its 2025 Open Funding Calls. These calls support innovative diet and health projects that foster collaboration and actionable research.
Discover more about the funding opportunities by joining the OIRC free webinar on Tuesday 18th February, from 2-4:30 pm. Please register here.
Exeter researchers are already working successfully with OIRC hubs, and we look forward to sharing more about new developments planned for 2025.
Who is Governing the Global Food System? PhD Summer School
From 30th June- 2nd July this event at the Centre Universitaire de Norvège in Paris will explore global food system governance, focusing on sustainability, collective action, and the role of institutions. Open to PhD students and post-docs, the summer school encourages applications addressing food system governance, policy, and collaboration across multiple levels. Application is via CV, covering letter, and abstract via email to hilde.bjorkhaug@ntnu.no and allison-marie.loconto@univ-eiffel.fr by 19th February. There is more information available here. Financial support is available.
New Research on Cultivated Meat: Call for Contributions
A new parliamentary research project is exploring the opportunities and challenges of cultivated meat production.
Grown from animal cells in nutrient-rich solutions, cultivated meat is already approved for consumption in Singapore, the USA, and Israel. The UK approved its use in pet food in July 2024. Promising as a sustainable, protein-rich alternative, it faces challenges like cost, scalability, regulation, and public perception.
The POSTnote will assess environmental, social, nutritional, and economic impacts and stakeholder views. To contribute or find out more visit the project page. Contributions are welcomed until 21st February and a report is expected in May 2025.
Call for Papers: Transformations of Foodways– Coloniality, Resistance & Resurgence
The Journal of Agrarian Change invites contributions for a Special Issue on the transformation of foodways. This issue explores the impacts of colonialism and globalisation on traditional food systems. Key themes include: disruptions to foodways by colonialisms and global trade, strategies to defend and reclaim food sovereignty and traditional knowledge and tensions between commercialisation and cultural preservation of traditional foods.
For more information visit the website or contact Nina Moeller ninam@sdu.dk, Jessica Milgroom fs2mimij@uco.es or Lopa Saxena lopa.saxena@coventry.ac.uk. The deadline for submission of abstracts (250–350 words) is 3rd March and for papers (7,000–12,000 words) is 16th June.
UK-China Higher Education Alliance PhD/ECR Workshop
PhD and Early Career Researchers are invited to submit papers for an online workshop on environment, agriculture, and food. Organised under the British Council China for UK-China Institutional Partnerships Enabling Grant, the workshop connects PhD and Early Career Researchers from the UK and leading Chinese universities fostering international academic exchange.
Themes include global exchanges in agriculture, agrarian knowledge and ethics, and the Anthropocene’s impact on food systems.
The Two-day workshop will take place during the week of 31st March. For details, contact Prof. Henry French (University of Exeter) at H.French@exeter.ac.uk.
RESOURCES
Second Exeter Food Mezze Seminar- Resources available
The Second Exeter Food Mezze Seminar took place this morning—thank you to our presenters and everyone that attended. These sessions foster knowledge exchange, constructive feedback, and potential collaborations. Today's featured talks were:
- Dr. Marc-William Palen: Left-Wing Visions of a Free Trade World
- Prof. Benjamin Wall: Algae as a Future Protein Source
- Dr. Tomas Chaigneau: Inequalities & Sustainable Fisheries
- Dr. Daniel Derbyshire: Economic Impact of Takeaway Management Zones
Access the Teams recording and slides shared via the Exeter Food members area.
Our next session will take place in May, more information to follow shortly. If you are interested in presenting please contact H.G.West@exeter.ac.uk.
New Research Dissemination guidance- please complete Survey
The Research Dissemination Team in the Library have developed new guidance to support research dissemination, helping you effectively share your work, engage diverse audiences, and maximise its global impact. This resource will highlight opportunities to connect with academics, organisations, businesses, and the public throughout the research lifecycle.
It will also provide insights on tailoring messages for different audiences, using platforms to amplify your work, and fostering collaborations to raise our university’s profile.
Please feedback- to ensure the guidance a relevant resource that supports researchers across all departments, they are asking researchers to please complete this short questionnaire sharing the tools you use and challenges you face.
For questions, contact Bethany Knight (b.c.knight@exeter.ac.uk), Research Dissemination Librarian. Thank you for your participation!
Explore PIVOT-RP: get personalised alerts for research funding opportunities
PIVOT-RP is a funding database. It can help you to access over 35,000 funding opportunities and £101.56 billion in available funding.
Create your user account today at pivot.proquest.com and streamline your research funding journey. Further information on how to use PIVOT RP can be found here.
Funding for Impact, Grant Applications and Beyond
The Impact@Exeter team are excited to announce the launch of Funding for Impact: Grant Applications and Beyond, their latest Impact Essentials training. This pre-recorded module is now available here and on the Impact@Exeter section of the RIME SharePoint site.
This 70-minute training, delivered in bite-sized sections, explores the impact funding landscape, strategies for securing funds, and tips for writing compelling, impact-focused proposals. It also dispels common funding myths and highlights how to include evaluation and evidence activities.
Perfect for all career stages, this flexible resource is designed for self-paced learning. Access the training and resources here on the Impact@Exeter area of the RIME SharePoint site.
Exeter Food is coordinated by Professor Harry West
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