HealthFerm Final Conference: Plant-Based Fermented Foods for Healthier and More Sustainable Diets
Showcasing research and evidence-based innovation from plant-based food fermentations to future research, policy and industry action
25-26 August 2026
Promotiezaal, Universiteitshal
KU Leuven
Naamsestraat 22, 3000 Leuven
Building number: 112-01
Free to attend
Join leading scientists, industry stakeholders and emerging researchers for two days of in-depth engagement with the latest findings from the HealthFerm project which is leading research on pulse- and cereal-based food fermentations and their health effects.
The HealthFerm Final Conference celebrates the conclusion of the HealthFerm Horizon Europe project and convenes the scientific community, industry partners, policymakers and young researchers to reflect on research outcomes, discuss pathways to real-world impact and chart future directions for fermentation science in European food systems.
The HealthFerm project has advanced understanding of fermentation microbiomes, developed novel plant-based fermented foods and investigated how these foods interact with human health and consumer perceptions, making this event a unique moment to translate science into action.
- Purpose of the Event
Participants will:
- Explore core scientific results on fermentation microbiomes and health effects
- Understand how fermentation technologies can support sustainable diets
- Examine consumer behaviour and acceptance of new fermented foods
- Discuss regulatory and innovation priorities with policymakers
- Identify opportunities for future research collaborations and funding
- Why Participate
Attendees will have the opportunity to:
- Gain deep insight into cutting-edge results from a major EU research project
- Hear from leading academics, industry innovators and regulators
- Join strategic discussions shaping the future of fermentation research
- Build professional connections across European food, health and policy sectors
- Attend thematic sessions, panels and networking formats
- Who Should Attend
This conference is tailored for:
- Researchers in fermented foods, food microbiomes, nutrition, gut health and more...
- Food manufacturers and ingredient companies active in fermentation innovation
- Policymakers and regulators focusing on food, health or sustainable diets
- Innovation agencies, research funders, ecosystem builders and NGOs
- Young researchers, PhD candidates and students engaged in fermentation science
What to Expect
Day 1: Scientific Advances & Health Outcomes
- Key scientific insights into fermentation microbiomes and human health
- Novel fermentation technologies for pulse and cereal-based foods
Day 2: Impact, Uptake and Future Priorities
- Results from human intervention studies and mechnistic analyses consumer behaviour and acceptance of new fermented foods
- Policy and regulatory implications of HealthFerm results
- Industry perspectives and scaling innovations
- Future research needs and funding pathways
Interactive formats include:
- Panel discussions and moderated Q&A
- Poster sessions and networking breaks
- Workshops on research translation and stakeholder engagement
Travel & Logistics
Leuven is a historic university city in Belgium, known for its vibrant research ecosystem and strong innovation culture. The event will take place at the Promotiezaal (Universiteitshal), KU Leuven, located at Naamsestraat 22, 3000 Leuven (Building 112-01), in the heart of the historic city centre.
- By air
Leuven is easily reached from Brussels Airport (BRU) by direct train, with a journey time of approximately 15–20 minutes. Trains depart frequently from the airport’s underground railway station to Leuven Station.
- By train
Leuven has excellent rail connections to major Belgian cities such as Brussels (20 min), Antwerp (45 min), Ghent (1 hour), and Liège (1 hour). International high-speed trains (Eurostar/Thalys/ICE) arrive at Brussels-Midi or Brussels-Central, from where Leuven can be reached by local train in around 25–30 minutes.
- From Leuven Station to the venue
The venue is about a 15-minute walk from Leuven Station. Several local bus lines also stop near Naamsestraat and the city centre.
- By car
Leuven is accessible via the E40 and E314 motorways. Parking in the historic centre is limited, so visitors are advised to use public parking facilities (e.g. Parking Ladeuze, Parking Station Leuven) and continue on foot.
- Local mobility
Leuven is a compact, pedestrian- and bike-friendly city. Most hotels, restaurants, and the venue are within walking distance. Taxis and local buses operated by De Lijn are readily available throughout the city.