A global roundtable on the science of processed foods, held on 16 and 30 October 2025, united over 1,000 experts from 78 nations. Organised by IUFoST and UNIDO, and co-chaired by the Presidents of IUNS and IUFoST, the event generated valuable new insights in nutrition and food science.
The IUFoST has just published a report on the two roundtables.
Key Discussion Insights
- Defining Processing vs. Ultra-Processing – Experts agreed that ‘processing’ is not synonymous with ‘ultra-processed.’ Erich Windhab described processing as a scientific toolbox that improves safety and palatability. Jeyakumar Henry stressed distinguishing between the process itself and the final product.
- Collaboration Gap – Only 25% of respondents felt that food technologists and nutrition scientists collaborate sufficiently. Hyun Sook Kim emphasized integrating nutrition into food technology design and policymaking.
- Evidence-Based Frameworks – Samuel Godefroy warned that unscientific classification systems could mislead consumers and weaken trust. He called for robust, data-driven methodologies aligned with Codex principles.
- Beyond NOVA – The IUFoST NOURISH model incorporates safety, palatability, sustainability, affordability, and convenience alongside nutrition to enable quantifiable, balanced classification.
- How can AI and digital tools accelerate functional and sustainable food design?
- Can digestibility and bioavailability be measured in the same framework?
- How can cultural diversity in food processing be respected within global frameworks?
- What is the greatest risk if classification lacks a solid scientific base? Top responses: misleading consumer information and loss of trust.
“Such an enlightening discussion! The integration of formulation and processing metrics like ΔNRF is a game changer for evidence-based food policy.”
“We cannot do without processing. What we need is a clear, scientifically defined framework for its impact on health.”
Next Steps
IUFoST, IUNS, and UNIDO will continue to work together to inform Codex deliberations and public understanding of the role of processing in global nutrition and sustainability.
For updates, visit www.iufost.org.
More info and videos about these roundtables:
From Lunchbox to Lab: The Science Behind Processed Foods
From Lunchbox to Lab: The Science Behind Processed Foods Interactive Dialogue
Source: https://iuns.org/2025/11/report-on-from ... undtables/
