• The European initiative seeks to create nutritious, minimally processed plant-based foods, improving health and reducing environmental impact.
• New products based on whole grains and by-products of the food industry will be developed.
• The project promotes local food systems, technological innovation, and economic opportunities in Europe.

Supported by the Horizon Europe programme funded by the European Union (EU) , the Sustain-a-bite project leads the development of plant-based agri-food alternatives that are healthy, accessible, and environmentally friendly. The project seeks to contribute to current dietary patterns with a more balanced diet through plant-based fiber and macronutrients.

Thus, the main objective of this initiative is to revolutionize the supply of plant-based products in Europe by developing minimally processed alternatives using ingredients such as barley, broad beans, chickpeas, and recyclable waste from fruit and vegetable processing. This initiative seeks to improve the nutritional profile of foods and promote a more sustainable food system.

New approaches

To build more resilient food systems, Sustain-a-bite develops initiatives and action plans that combine innovation, nutrition, and sustainability. The project's key actions include:

1. Development of nutrient-rich foods : Plant-based products will be created with high levels of protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while reducing the presence of saturated fats, added sugars, and anti-nutritional factors.
2. Innovative manufacturing processes : Minimal processing techniques will be used to maintain the natural properties of the ingredients and allow for adoption by both small local businesses and large food industries.
3. Valorization of food by-products : agricultural waste such as apple, carrot and tomato pulp will be used, contributing to a circular economy and a significant reduction in food waste .
4. Boosting local food systems : Food production from local raw materials will be encouraged, strengthening regional economies and bringing healthy products closer to consumers.
5. Promoting healthy eating habits : Awareness campaigns will be supported to increase social acceptance of plant-based diets, highlighting their benefits for both health and the environment.

These lines of action reinforce the EU's commitment to a more balanced, innovative, and resource-friendly food transition.

Context

Currently, European diets can present significant nutritional imbalances, characterized by excessive consumption of animal protein and low fiber intake. Furthermore, many commercially available plant-based products are highly processed, contain numerous additives, and lack essential nutrients.

From here, Sustain-a-bite emerged to respond to this context that requires innovative solutions , proposing a paradigm shift that combines public health, environmental sustainability, and economic opportunities.

Participation of Spain

The project It is aligned with the European Green Deal 's " Farm to Fork " strategy , which pursues the transition toward fair, healthy, and environmentally friendly food systems. It also involves the collaboration of all stakeholders in the food value chain, from farmers and manufacturers to researchers, retailers, and consumers, enabling these innovations to reach the market and the public.

The initiative will be developed over the next three and a half years, coordinated by the VTT Technical Research Center in Finland, in collaboration with 19 partners from 13 countries, with Spain coordinating the project's communication and dissemination activities.