Every year on 21 March, we celebrate the International Day of Forests, highlighting the crucial role that forests play in sustaining life on Earth. This year’s theme, “Forests and Food”, highlights the important contribution of forests to food security, nutrition, and sustainable livelihoods. Across Europe, innovative projects are working to enhance the link between forests and food, ensuring that these ecosystems continue to provide for future generations.

FTP supports research and innovation that strengthens the sustainable use of forest resources. Today, we spotlight 3 European projects that are making significant steps in advancing food production from forests while preserving their ecosystems.

FEROX: AI and Robotics Supporting Wild Food Harvesting

Wild food harvesting is a traditional yet underutilized resource that forests provide. The FEROX project leverages cutting-edge artificial intelligence, robotics, and data technologies to support workers in the collection of wild foods such as berries, mushrooms, and medicinal plants. By enhancing efficiency, safety, and traceability in wild food harvesting, the partners contribute to strengthening local economies while preserving biodiversity and ensuring sustainable forest management.

INTACT: Innovating Truffle Cultivation and Preservation

Truffles, one of the most prized forest delicacies, depend on healthy forest ecosystems to thrive. The INTACT project aims to enhance the sustainability of truffle production by improving cultivation techniques, processing methods, and conservation practices. INTACT supports rural economies while preserving the natural truffle-growing habitats, ensuring that this product remains a valuable forest resource.

SYLPLANT: Unlocking Alternative Sources of High-Value Food and Feed Ingredients

Forests offer an untapped potential for alternative food and feed sources. The SYLPLANT consortium explores how lignocellulosic material from the forest can serve as high-value ingredients for food and animal feed. By identifying and developing new plant-based proteins and bioactive compounds, SYLPLANT contributes to more sustainable and resilient food systems.

As we celebrate the International Day of Forests, it is essential to recognize the interdependence between forests, food, and people’s well-being. Projects like INTACT, SYLPLANT, and FEROX demonstrate that innovation can allow forests to remain a source of nourishment and economic resilience.

Find more innovative projects across the whole forest-based sector on FTP Database.