Founded in 2020 by Nestlé, EPFL, Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne and the Swiss Canton of Vaud, SFNV is intended to address the major global food and nutrition challenges of the future. Bérangère Magarinos-Ruchat, Firmenich’s chief sustainability officer, has been appointed to the executive commitee of the new network.
“SFNV’s mission is very much aligned with Firmenich’s purpose to create positive emotions and enhance wellbeing,” Emmanuel Butstraen, Firmenich Taste & Beyond president, said.
“We are proud to contribute to the organization’s key objectives through our understanding of the food ecosystem, innovation capabilities and expertise in protein alternatives, in order to advance global nutrition and food chain security.”
Magarinos-Ruchat added, “Switzerland is home to a unique innovation ecosystem in food and nutrition and we are looking forward to further partnering with leading companies, start-ups, research institutes and public authorities to accelerate the future of foods.
“Many sectors are involved in food and nutrition innovation in Switzerland, bringing them together under a shared vision will create global opportunities for sustainable food innovation.”
The SFNV, which stretches from Geneva to Zürich, brings together local authorities, companies, universities and associations, and will focus on areas such as nutrition, life sciences, alternative proteins, packaging science, waste management and precision agriculture.