Franco-Dutch parties collaborate with Danone to advance sustainable nutrition & health

France and the Netherlands have signed a Letter of Intent to support and improve collaboration in sustainable food, nutrition, and health. 

During the French Ambassador François Alabrune’s visit to the Netherlands this week, the Global Research & Innovation Center of Danone in Utrecht, the French Embassy, Utrecht University (the Netherlands), and Danone Research & Innovation reached an agreement. 

The partnership will be strengthening its collaboration in research and academic exchange to contribute toward Europe’s food sovereignty and sustainable food systems.

In his address, Alabrune emphasized the need to invest in young talent: “While France and the Netherlands are internationally recognized for their expertise in the agri-food and health sectors, both countries face significant talent shortages in the years ahead. I hope this partnership will lead to more exchange of knowledge and talent between our two countries.” 

Strengthening public-private collab

The visit took place at Danone’s research center at the Utrecht Science Park, the Netherlands, and underscored the need for robust links between science, industry, and societal partners.

The latest research on consumer and patient nutrition needs was discussed, while Danone’s research center collaboration with academic institutions, start-ups, and partners was highlighted.

Utrecht University says the new alliance builds on the Erasmus–Descartes Conference on Europe’s food sovereignty, which was the beginning of the Franco-Dutch partnership.

The Letter of Intent seeks to encourage academic partnerships and promote student and early-career researchers. It also aims to create joint public-private research programs to address major social challenges that involve nutrition, health, and aging. 

Innova Market Insight data reveals that 31% of consumers in Europe say that healthy aging is extremely important to them. 

Nutrition Insight recently spoke with The European Institute of Innovation and Technology Food, which found that over half (51%) of Europeans want to eat healthier. However, affordability and issues with breaking old habits pose the most significant hurdles to making lifestyle changes. Sustainable food choices, like reducing the consumption of animal-based products, were seen to be declining.

To further develop the initiative, French academic and research institutions, including AgroParisTech, INRAE, and L’Institut Agro, are interested in joining. Other Dutch and French stakeholders have also been invited to contribute to developing the initiative.