What we achieved
Here we break down the findings of Food Behaviour Lab’s projects into clear and engaging research insights, simplifying the science behind them to inspire curiosity, make knowledge more accessible and demonstrate the benefits to society.
The insect leap:
Overcoming market barriers to feed the future
In a world grappling with environmental degradation and mounting pressure on global food systems, a biotechnological revolution is quietly taking shape. Insects, often overlooked, are emerging as a scientifically-backed, concrete response to human needs – a sustainable, low-impact, and incredibly versatile source of protein. This is not just about a new ingredient; it is about a new value chain and a truly circular bioeconomy, poised to transform everything from human and animal diets to cosmetics, bioplastics and fertilisers. Portugal, through the InsectERA Mobilizing Agenda, is at the forefront of this shift, galvanizing European science, industry and markets to develop groundbreaking insect-based solutions.
SUSINCHAIN:
Insects enter the european food chain
Rearing insects on a large scale to produce ingredients for animal and human food is perhaps the biggest and most radical transformation taking place in agriculture right now. But are we, as consumers, ready for it? What do we really know about the nutritional value and sustainability of this new source of protein? Or about the way it is produced in Europe? What products are already being developed for the markets in the different countries, and how well will they be accepted? How can we best promote their consumption to reduce our dependence on meat? And did you know that Portugal is at the forefront of this food revolution?
How we eat what we eat:
A portrait of meal consumption in Portugal
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Trivial and yet complex, the meal is the cultural institution that regulates our diet as well as all the decisions and behaviours associated with it. But what are the meal preparation and consumption habits of the Portuguese today? How have they evolved in recent decades? How do they compare to other countries? In what way do they impact their diet, health, wealth and food security?