Ana Costa, Principal Investigator at CUBE and partner of the InsectERA project, will host a scientific colloquium, on 9 June at the Feira Nacional de Agricultura (FNA), Portugal’s premier agricultural fair.
The colloquium, organised in collaboration with P-Bio (Portuguese Biotechnology Industry Organization), will be focused on the theme “Insects in Food: The Present and Future of the Market”. It will serve as a platform to present recent research outputs, engage with experts from the biotechnology sector, and initiate dialogue with industry representatives on the future role of insects in sustainable food systems. Participants will include key stakeholders such as Auchan, Tecma Foods, Corial Foods, and The Cricket Farming Co, highlighting the growing commercial interest and investment in insect-based innovations.
The 2025 edition of FNA, which will take place from 7 to 15 June, is themed "Bioindustry Solutions", with a special focus on the insect bioindustry—an emerging sector gaining traction for its sustainability and efficiency.
The InsectERA consortium will host an International Scientific Congress, and will hold thematic sessions throughout the event. On 9 June, the CATÓLICA-LISBON (UCP) will participate in a themed day centered on markets and consumer.
The project funded by PRR brings together 41 key stakeholders across the entire insect-based value chain. This strategic agenda is designed to explore the potential of insects as tools and solutions within bioindustrial systems. It encompasses the full innovation cycle—from R&D and advanced technological production methods to the commercialisation of insect-derived products.
Attracting tens of thousands of visitors daily, the FNA is a significant event on Portugal’s agrifood calendar. Its attendees include representatives from agribusiness, the food industry, retailers, non-profit organisations, and the broader public. With many entities maintaining a presence throughout the fair, the event offers an ideal platform for knowledge exchange and stakeholder engagement.
FNA 25 is the ideal setting to bring stakeholders and the public up to speed on the emerging insect bioindustry and its potential markets, chiefly among them the food market. Our colloquium will provide answers to a few simple yet vital questions: What is the consumer demand for insect-based foods in Europe? What products are more likely to succeed in this market? What can promote consumer acceptance of insect food applications? – Ana Costa
Researchers, academics, and professionals in the field are encouraged to participate in the colloquium and take advantage of the rich interdisciplinary interactions at this year’s FNA.