The DFC is a collective aiming to transform food systems by addressing challenges faced by short supply chains. It brings together diverse actors to create an open digital standard that enhances interoperability between platforms. This approach seeks to dismantle data silos that hinder efficient communication and cooperation, providing tools to connect stakeholders across the ecosystem.

The consortium's primary objective is to support producers, independent distributors, and short supply chains by providing them with the digital tools necessary to enhance their operations. This is achieved through the creation of a standardized "meta-ontology" that describes various projects, actors, and ideas within the food distribution system, thereby fostering interoperability among different platforms.  

All technical information and resources developed by DFC are open source, encouraging collaboration and contributions from developers and stakeholders interested in advancing the project's mission. By enabling platforms to communicate effectively, the Data Food Consortium aims to empower local producers and distributors, streamline short supply chains, and ultimately contribute to a more efficient and equitable food system.

At the core of DFC’s innovation are two complementary ontologies: semantic (business and product) and technical. These establish a unified language for describing activities, products, and data exchange protocols, making systems more transparent and user-friendly. The semantic ontology defines what entities do (e.g., produce or sell) and the products they handle, while the technical ontology dictates data exchange methods to ensure real-time communication between platforms.

To illustrate the impact, DFC has developed the MyCataLog prototype, showcasing practical benefits like centralized inventory management, simplified order handling, and shared logistics. For instance, farmers using separate platforms can synchronise stock updates, avoiding missed opportunities or redundant transportation. By fostering cooperation, such innovations reduce manual workloads, save costs, and lower carbon footprints.

Guided by values of collaboration, independence, and equity, DFC avoids centralised power structures, choosing open standards to ensure democratic access and to prevent dependency on proprietary systems. Examples include managing catalogues via distributed links instead of unique identifiers and hosting prototypes with neutral organizations like Les Communs.

By uniting platforms under a shared framework, DFC enables data pooling, efficient logistics, and reduced environmental impact. Its vision of a cooperative, transparent food system is rooted in empowering producers and consumers alike. With widespread adoption of its open standard, DFC seeks to redefine food and digital democracy for a more sustainable future.