1. 1 a National Network of Excellence for Food Science & Technology The Swiss National Network of Excellence for the Swiss Food Sector Jean-Claude Villettaz, Ph.D. Member of the Board www.swissfoodnet.ch 1st meeting of the National Technology Platforms Rome – April 14 th, 2007

2. 2 Strengthening the competitiveness of the Swiss Food industry through market driven R&D and innovation, by providing: 1st meeting of the National Technology Platforms - Rome - April 14th, 2007 a National Network of Excellence for Food Science & Technology Network’s main objective Know-How and expertise Access to public R&D infrastructures (labs, pilot plants) Help for searching for key competences (academic partners)

3. 3 Organization of 2 workshops in 2006, inviting the Swiss Food industry to share the visions of the ETP Food for Life Presentation of the ETP Food for Life, by Prof. Brian McKenna (November 3, 2006) Presentation of “Food & Health” and “Food & Consumer” visions, by Prof. Robert J. Brummer (December 12, 2006) 1st meeting of the National Technology Platforms - Rome - April 14th, 2007 a National Network of Excellence for Food Science & Technology Promoting the visions of the ETP Food for Life

4. 4 Mailing to about 100 food companies drawing attention to the SRA and the ETP visions Direct bilateral meetings with CEO from 20 selected food companies 1st meeting of the National Technology Platforms - Rome - April 14th, 2007 a National Network of Excellence for Food Science & Technology Actions taken to stimulate innovation potential in food companies

5. 5 Very little reaction from food companies so far. Main reasons: Innovation means investment (time, money) Innovation requires a vision of the future Innovation is rather for the big companies, not for SME Low margin sector, very low investment in R&D Innovation = me too No tradition in pre-competitive R&D (just act for today) “Go alone” culture No - or almost no - IP protection Too little “success stories” to tell, to be able to convince food companies to invest in R&D 1st meeting of the National Technology Platforms - Rome - April 14th, 2007 a National Network of Excellence for Food Science & Technology Results & problems encountered

6. 6 1st meeting of the National Technology Platforms - Rome - April 14th, 2007 a National Network of Excellence for Food Science & Technology Questions