The FoodManufuture concept is based on the following concrete objectives:

1. Strong, challenging, and shared visions for innovation, research, and technology transfer.
2. Gap analyses of the visions to identify gaps and barriers in the existing European research infrastructure.
3. A Conceptual Design report describing the final advice to policymakers including an assessment of the technical and financial feasibility of the new research infrastructure.

In line with the need for current readiness to meet the grand challenges, the main focus of the FoodManufuture project will be addressing the use of manufacturing technologies in terms of:

– forward-looking use of resources
· Energy and materials saving, alternative material sources
· Valorisation of by-products
· Scientific human resources, education & training
– efficient and innovative production
· Cost efficiency
· Flexible production and services, automation, and/or monitoring systems
· New functionalities, including smart packaging, hygiene control, etc.
· Development of innovative and high-quality food products that meet the consumers' needs
– smart management
· Business models
· Food chain management, logistics, and retail
· Overall sustainability of the food chain
· Innovative entrepreneurship

The main focus of this project is the food manufacturing sector, but retail, primary production and transport will be included when relevant. Consumers' needs and expectations will underline the approach.

The manufacturing solutions sector will provide technical solutions with large potential for implementation in the food sector, such as equipment, services, and materials, such as process equipment, automation systems, manufacturing robots, production technologies, online sensors, information and communication technology (ICT) solutions, management systems, novel packaging materials, etc.