The global food system is under increasing pressure from climate change, resource scarcity, public health challenges, and shifting consumer demands. With the launch of FOOD 2030, the Department of Food Science (AU FOOD) at Aarhus University sets a clear and ambitious course to help shape a healthier, more sustainable, and more resilient food future.

Aligned with Aarhus University’s Strategy 2030, FOOD 2030 sharpens AU FOOD’s focus on one central ambition: maximizing societal impact. The strategy defines how the department will translate scientific excellence into meaningful change across the global food system.

“We have a responsibility to help shape a food system that is healthier, more sustainable, and more resilient - and these strategic goals set the direction for how we will contribute,” says Anne Louise Dannesboe Nielsen, Head of Department.

FOOD 2030 positions AU FOOD not merely as a research department, but as a catalyst for systemic transformation. The strategy emphasises the department’s role in advancing both human and planetary health by developing knowledge and solutions that support sustainable diets, resilient value chains, and circular bio-based food systems.

As food systems grow more complex, the need for integrated and interdisciplinary approaches becomes increasingly urgent. AU FOOD’s distinctive strength lies in its comprehensive perspective — spanning the entire value chain from primary production and processing to nutrition and consumer science.

“Our research spans from field to consumer, creating the scientific foundation for the food systems of the future,” says Jette Feveile Young, Deputy Head of Department.

This ’field to consumer’-approach enables AU FOOD to deliver solutions that bridge scientific discovery, technological development, and societal application to maximize impact.

At the core of FOOD 2030 is a structured and intentional approach to impact, delivered through four primary channels:

🔍 Research: Strengthening internationally recognised foundational and applied food science that addresses global challenges in nutrition, health, sustainability, and resource efficiency.

🎓 Education: Equipping future leaders and professionals with the competencies needed to transform food systems, through research-based and forward-thinking degree programmes.

🧠 Innovation: Expanding collaboration with industry, public institutions, and research partners to accelerate the development and implementation of sustainable food solutions.

🗣️ Policy Advice: Providing independent, evidence-based knowledge to decision-makers, contributing to informed policies that support healthier diets and more resilient food systems.

By working strategically across these four channels, AU FOOD ensures that knowledge generation is closely connected to real-world implementation and measurable societal value.

FOOD 2030 also recognizes that lasting impact depends on a strong academic culture. The strategy commits to fostering an inspiring, inclusive, and collaborative environment that attracts and develops talented researchers, educators, and students from around the world.

“Great science starts with great people. Our ambition is to make AU FOOD an inspiring and supportive place to work and collaborate,” says Anne Louise Dannesboe Nielsen.

By strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration and international partnerships, AU FOOD aims to reinforce its position as a globally recognized partner in shaping the future of food.

Importantly, FOOD 2030 is not merely aspirational. The strategy is supported by structured implementation plans, strategic partnerships, advisory engagement, and a clear commitment to tracking impact. This ensures that ambition is translated into concrete progress and lasting societal value.

Through FOOD 2030, AU FOOD reaffirms its long-term commitment to research, education, innovation, and policy engagement that benefit academia, industry, policymakers, and communities alike.

As the world seeks sustainable solutions to feed a growing population within planetary boundaries, AU FOOD stands ready to contribute knowledge, talent, and partnerships that help build healthier and more resilient food systems by 2030.

For a comprehensive overview of the strategic priorities, ambitions, and implementation framework behind FOOD 2030, please visit: 👉 https://food.au.dk/fileadmin/food/International_collaboration/FOOD_2030_Strategy.pdf