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Newsletter: September 2026
Welcome to the September 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 Researcher Leads British Science Festival Psychology Programme
Congratulations to Exeter Food member Natalia Lawrence on becoming President of the Psychology Section for the British Science Festival. This appointment recognises her significant contributions to psychology and public engagement. This Friday 18th September 17:30-18:30, Professor Lawrence will deliver “Exploring the Science Behind What We Eat”, a thought-provoking a British Science Association session examining why food choices are often difficult to change and how small behavioural shifts can support healthier, more sustainable diets. The event will also feature University of Exeter undergraduate student Rhea, whose Grand Challenges-inspired activity uses an abacus bracelet to help people make informed shopping choices. Full details are here https://britishscienceassociation-tickets.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173683760
Sustainable Food Production and Afforestation
Researchers from the University of Exeter have contributed to new research published in the Journal of Cleaner Production examining how the UK can balance food security with ambitious tree-planting targets. The study found that recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), which produce seafood in highly efficient indoor facilities, could offset nearly 80% of the animal protein lost through afforestation while supporting carbon reduction goals. Led by an international team including Exeter academics Diana Tingley, Rod Wilson and Ian Bateman, the research highlights how innovative aquaculture technologies could help reconcile environmental restoration, food production and net-zero ambitions across Great Britain. The full article is here https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0959652626014290.
Exeter Research Highlights Need for Stronger Global Fisheries Rules
New research from I-Ju Chen at the University of Exeter argues that protecting global fish stocks will require a broader set of international legal frameworks, rather than relying on a single agreement. The study examines the World Trade Organisation Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies (FSA), which came into force in 2025 and aims to tackle illegal fishing, overexploitation of fish stocks and harmful subsidies. While the agreement is an important step forward, the research identifies gaps that limit its effectiveness. The findings suggest that complementary international rules, each with distinct objectives, could better support sustainable fisheries, food security, ocean health and long-term environmental sustainability. Here is more information https://news.exeter.ac.uk/faculty-of-humanities-arts-and-social-sciences/
Study Highlights Benefits of Reducing Meat and Dairy Consumption
New research published in Nature Food by a team from the University of Edinburgh, working with the University of Oxford and Food Standards Scotland, suggests that reducing meat and dairy consumption could deliver significant health and environmental benefits. The study modelled 33 pathways to achieve the UK Climate Change Committee’s dietary targets among Scottish adults. Researchers found that almost all scenarios improved health, environmental and nutritional outcomes without increasing diet costs. The greatest benefits were achieved when reductions targeted high consumers of red meat and when meat and dairy were replaced with vegetables, beans, eggs and plant-based alternatives, supporting healthier and more sustainable diets. The full article is here https://www.nature.com/articles/s43016-026-01384-3
Devon Food Partnership Seeking Community Food Providers
The Devon Food Partnership Food Insecurity Working Group is keen to connect with food support organisations across Devon, Plymouth and Torbay. Craig Jolly from the Mushroom Exmouth District Community Food Network is offering informal visits to food banks, community cafés, pantries and social supermarkets. These conversations will help identify local challenges, strengthen networks and inform regional priorities for tackling food insecurity. If your organisation would like a visit or would like to learn more, please get in touch and please share this opportunity with your contacts. mushroomnetworkexmouth@gmail.com.
Exeter 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.
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.
Growing Local: Exeter Quayside Farmers’ Market
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 19th September 09:00- 13:00. Find out more:
Join Exeter Food Action's Food Festival
Why not come along to Exeter Food Action's Food Festival at Princesshay Square, Exeter on Sunday 20th September? This free community event celebrates ways to reduce food waste while raising awareness of the valuable work Exeter Food Action does across the city.
There is something for all ages, with cookery demonstrations, children's activities, expert talks, community stories, and practical tips on growing, preserving and making the most of food. Visitors can also enter the Food Hero competition to receive a Food Waste Hero Certificate and be entered into a prize draw to win a £250 Amazon voucher. Download and complete an entry form here and take it along on the day. https://exeterfoodaction.org.uk/exeter-food-action-festival-2026/
University of Exeter Grounds Team Plant Sale
Looking to add some greenery to your home or garden? Visit the University of Exeter Grounds Team’s plant sale in the Forum Piazza, Streatham Campus on Wednesday 23rd September from 10:00 to 14:00. A wide variety of houseplants and garden plants, all grown in the University’s own nursery, will be available to purchase. There will also be locally produced honey from the University's resident bees on sale. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, this is a great opportunity to pick up a new plant and learn more about the University’s horticultural activities.
Film Screening and Q&A: Derek vs Derek
Join a special screening of Derek vs Derek on Thursday 24th September at 19:00 at The New Carlton Cinema, Market Street, Okehampton EX20 1HN. This award-winning documentary by James Dawson follows two neighbouring Devon farmers, both named Derek, who take very different approaches to land management and nature recovery. By turns humorous and thought-provoking, the film explores the future of rural Britain and the relationship between farming and environmental restoration. The screening will be followed by a live Q&A with Derek Banbury and Derek Gow, offering audiences the chance to continue the conversation and ask questions directly. For more information and to book tickets - https://okehampton.merlincinemas.co.uk/film/112312-derek-vs-derek-with-q-and-a
Oxford Symposium on Food and Cookery: Autumn Season
There is still time to join the last few sessions of the Oxford Symposium on Food and Cookery 2026, which this year explores the theme of “Poverty Food.” The Zoom sessions bring together scholars, practitioners and food thinkers from around the world to discuss the social, cultural and political dimensions of food and poverty.
Topics include survival and food sharing, ethics of care, food scarcity, memory and changing tastes, and representations of poverty in literature and community life. Participants can choose a full online access pass or attend individual events. Registration also includes opportunities to join live discussions, access papers and presentations, and engage with leading voices in food studies. Dates and topics are here https://www.oxfordsymposium.org.uk/current-symposium/#buy-ticket
People Planet Profit: Building a Resilient Food and Drink Sector
Food and drink businesses across Devon are invited to attend the People Planet Profit event on Tuesday 29th September at The Corn Barn, Cullompton. Organised by Devon Food Partnership and Food Drink Devon, the event will explore practical ways businesses can adapt to climate change, build resilience and identify new opportunities for growth.
Hear from industry experts and local businesses including Sharpham Cheese, Do Good Things Farm, Granny Gothards, The Bull Inn and the Met Office. The programme includes panel discussions, networking opportunities, refreshments and information on funded business support programmes. Topics include managing extreme weather, strengthening supply chains, supporting staff wellbeing and developing profitable innovations. Book your place https://peopleplanetprofit-middevon.eventbrite.com
Powderham Food Festival Returns This October
Food lovers are in for a treat as the Powderham Food Festival returns to Powderham Castle on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th October 2026. With more than 100 local food, drink, craft and artisan traders, the festival promises a fantastic weekend celebrating the very best of Devon produce.
Visitors can enjoy live cooking demonstrations, tastings, craft stalls, family entertainment, a climbing wall, archery and the popular chilli eating competition.
For tickets and more information, visit www.powderhamfoodfestival.com.
Report Launch: Leveraging Research for Food Systems Transformation
Join the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and University of Vermont (UVM) Institute for Agroecology on Monday 5th October 14:00 for the global launch of A Matter of Principles: Leveraging Research for Food Systems Transformation. This online webinar will explore how research can drive more just, sustainable, and resilient food systems in response to growing challenges including food insecurity, climate change, biodiversity loss, and inequality. Featuring the report's authors and leading voices in food systems transformation, the discussion will examine six key leverage points for change and outline a bold, equity-centred research agenda. Register at: https://go.uvm.edu/a-matter-of-principles.
International Conference on Food Studies 2026
The 16th International Conference on Food Studies is 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 register.
Visit Dartmouth Food Festival 2026
The Dartmouth Food Festival returns from 23rd to 25th October 2026, celebrating Devon’s outstanding food, drink and coastal heritage in the heart of one of England’s most picturesque estuaries. Run by volunteers since 2003, the festival brings together renowned chefs, food writers, local producers and food enthusiasts for three days of culinary inspiration. Visitors can enjoy live cookery demonstrations, wine seminars, drink masterclasses and thought-provoking Food Matters talks, alongside a wide range of trade stands showcasing the best regional produce. There’s more information here https://www.dartmouthfoodfestival.com/.
Workshop: Exploring Care and its Affective Dimensions in Agriculture
Early career researchers with an interest in agriculture, anthropology and related disciplines are invited to attend a one-day workshop, Exploring Care and Its Affective Dimensions in Agriculture, at the University of Neuchâtel, Switzerland, on Tuesday 27th October 2026. The event will bring together PhD students, postdoctoral researchers and other early career scholars to explore care as a lens for understanding agricultural practices, management and politics. Through presentations, discussions and interactive workshops, participants will examine human, multispecies and environmental dimensions of care in agriculture while building international research networks and identifying opportunities for future collaboration. For further information see here https://lnkd.in/p/es5BpcMK or contact amanda.jousset@unine.ch.
Agrifest South West 2026 Returns to Exeter
Agrifest South West 2026 will take place on Wednesday 4th November at Westpoint, Exeter, bringing together farmers, producers, agricultural businesses and rural professionals from across the region. With free entry for spectators from 8am, visitors can enjoy Devon’s premier primestock show, featuring cattle and sheep competitions, more than 50 agricultural trade stands, industry speakers and networking opportunities. The event also showcases the best of local produce through its popular steak, sausage, burger and ready-to-eat competitions. Agrifest provides an important forum for discussing the future of farming while celebrating innovation and excellence across the South West agricultural sector.
More information: https://www.agrifestsouthwest.co.uk/
Free Creative Workshop: Food Insecurity & Wellbeing
As part of the 2026 Festival of Social Science, the University of Exeter is hosting a free creative workshop exploring food insecurity, wellbeing and the cost-of-living crisis through photography and collage. Taking place on Friday 6th November 17:00-19:30, the workshop will encourage participants to reflect on themes of food access, care, eating and body acceptance using simple, hands-on creative activities.
No previous art or photography experience is required, and all materials and refreshments will be provided. The session will be led by photographer and artist Carli Adby-Notley and hosted by Dr Akansha M. Naraindas and Dr Fidan Turk. The event is free to attend, and places can be booked here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/food-insecurity-wellbeing-collage-and-visual-arts-workshop-tickets-1999360934376
Living Labyrinths: Art and Fungi at RAMM
Discover the hidden world of fungi in Living Labyrinths: Art and Fungi, a unique exhibition at Exeter’s Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM) running from 3rd October 2026 to 21st February 2027. Combining contemporary art with scientific enquiry, the exhibition explores themes of biodiversity, symbiosis, medical mycology and our relationship with the natural world. Featuring works in ceramics, glass, photography, painting and textiles, alongside rare specimens from RAMM’s collections, highlights include pieces by internationally renowned artists, Beatrix Potter’s fungal watercolours and Cy Twombly’s celebrated mushroom collages. Tickets are available online https://rammuseum.org.uk/whats-on/living-labyrinths-art-fungi/
St Thomas Community Markets: Dates for Your Diary
Support local producers and discover fresh, artisan food at the popular St Thomas Brillsville Market in Exeter. Held in The Kings Car Park, Cowick Street, upcoming market dates are Saturday 10th October, Saturday 14th November, and Saturday 12th December. Visitors can browse a range of local stalls, including baked goods, produce and other community-focused offerings.
Looking ahead, the St Thomas Winter Market will take place on Saturday 21st November in The Churchyard on Cowick Street, providing another opportunity to support local businesses and community enterprises.
For updates and further information, follow the market on:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
- X: https://x.com/
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.
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. Visit the website for full details https://www.alazhar.edu.ps/CRAFS/index.asp
Images of Research Competition 2026 Open
Calling all Early Career and Postgraduate Researchers! The University of Exeter’s Images of Research Competition 2026 is now open, offering a fantastic opportunity to showcase your research through a powerful image and a short, jargon-free description. The competition helps researchers develop valuable skills in communicating complex ideas to non-specialist audiences and has attracted hundreds of entries in previous years. Selected entries will be exhibited online and at the Forum on Streatham Campus, with winners promoted through University social media channels. The closing date is Monday 5th October. Find inspiration, guidance and entry details at www.exeter.ac.uk/imagesofresearch.
Free Student Membership with the Society of Agriculture
As the new academic year begins, students studying agriculture, rural business, land management, environmental sciences, conservation, agri-food and related subjects are encouraged to join the Society of Agriculture through its free student membership scheme. Membership provides opportunities to build professional networks, connect with industry professionals, and access events, training, CPD and career development resources. It is an excellent way for students to enhance their studies while gaining valuable insight into the agricultural and land-based sectors. Students can find out more and apply online at: https://soc-ag.org/membership/. Please share this opportunity with relevant students and student-facing colleagues.
FSA Scientific Advisory Committee Recruitment Campaign
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has launched a recruitment campaign to fill 23 vacancies across its Scientific Advisory Committees and Science Council. Opportunities are available for Chairs, Full Members, Associate Members and Lay Members, offering experts the chance to contribute independent scientific advice that helps shape UK food policy and protect public health.
The FSA is seeking expertise across a wide range of disciplines, including toxicology, food microbiology, veterinary science, novel foods, genetics, statistics, economics and behavioural sciences. Applications close on Monday 12th October 2026. Visit the FSA Scientific Advisory Committee recruitment page. for details.
Call for Papers: Food Politics in the Global South- Nature Collection
Applications are open for the Food Politics in the Global South collection. This interdisciplinary initiative explores how power, conflict and negotiation shape food systems, and examines issues including food sovereignty, climate change, trade, governance and inequality. Researchers are invited to contribute work that amplifies perspectives from the Global South and identifies pathways towards fairer and more sustainable food systems. The collection welcomes critical research from a range of disciplines. The submission deadline is Thursday 22nd October 2026. Full details and submission guidance are 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.
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.
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
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.
Defra Funding Opportunities for Farmers and Growers
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs are currently offering a range of funding opportunities to support farmers, growers and land managers. Current schemes include the Farmer Collaboration Fund, which helps groups of farmers share knowledge and trial new practices, and the Farming Innovation Programme, offering support for collaborative research and development projects. Additional opportunities include the Farming in Protected Landscapes scheme and the ADOPT Fund, which provides grants of £50,000 to £100,000 for farmer-led innovation and on-farm technology trials. Researchers working with agricultural partners are encouraged to explore these opportunities and share them through their networks. Read more here https://www.gov.uk/guidance/funding-for-farmers
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 thousands of funding opportunities for research, fieldwork, conferences, and exchanges, relevant to individuals at all levels from undergraduates to senior academics. With 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. There have been many funding successes across the University community, more awards are being added frequently, and this tool is in use across 110 countries.
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. 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/
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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