Join us for an insightful episode, featuring Christina Senn Jakobsen, CEO of Swiss Food and Nutrition Valley. In this episode, we delve into the crucial roles of ecosystems and collaborative efforts in transforming our global food system. Christina discusses the innovative approaches and partnerships that are pivotal for promoting sustainability and improving food production and consumption. This conversation is a must-listen for industry professionals, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of food. Learn about the groundbreaking work being done at Swiss Food and Nutrition Valley and how collective action is key to creating a healthier, more sustainable world. Don't miss this engaging and enlightening discussion on the cutting edge of food innovation.

About Christina

A passionate believer in the positive power of collaboration and innovation, Christina’s work centers on solving some of the most pressing global issues related to food. With a background in food science and nutrition, Christina believes food system transformation is a team sport.

In her current role as Managing Director at Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley, she brings the Swiss food ecosystem together to co-create innovations that shape more future-focused food systems and aims to put Switzerland firmly on the map as a food innovation nation.

Christina holds a Master’s in Food Science & Technology from the University of Copenhagen and a Master’s in European Food Studies from Wageningen University. She spent the first twelve years of her career at Mondelez in roles spanning R&D, innovation management, marketing and strategy before she moved on to work with entrepreneurs and startup collaborations.

Danish by birth, Christina studied and worked in fourteen different countries before making Switzerland home in 2007, when her love of the mountains made it impossible for her to leave.

About SFNV

A network of Swiss food innovators – from universities, large enterprises, innovation accelerators and investors to government bodies, SMEs and startups - committed to reshaping food systems to drive better human and planetary health.

Welcome to the FoodTech Junkies Limited Series "The Green Spoon," where we explore the fascinating intersection of culinary innovation and sustainability. In today's episode, we take you inside the heart of Brussels to Humus and Hortense, a place that's not just a restaurant but a beacon of plant-based dining and eco-conscious living.

I had the distinct pleasure of sitting down with Nicolas Decloedt and Caroline Baerten, the masterminds behind this award-winning establishment. Nicolas, renowned for his expertise in plant-based cuisine, and Caroline, a mindfulness practitioner with a deep connection to the food we eat, have together created a dining experience that's not only gastronomically delightful but also a testament to their commitment to the planet.

Humus and Hortense isn't just known for its exquisite menus; it's a pioneer in sustainable dining. Our conversation delved into their innovative approaches - from sourcing ingredients to managing waste and everything in between. What's more, Nicolas and Caroline have taken a significant step in transparency and accountability by preparing a Sustainability Policy. This document outlines their eco-responsible practices and places well-being at the core of their operation.

Join us as we uncover the stories, challenges, and triumphs of running one of the most forward-thinking restaurants in the world. Whether you're a food enthusiast, an environmental advocate, or simply someone looking for inspiration to make a positive change, this episode is for you. Let's dive into a world where every dish tells a story of sustainability, innovation, and compassion.

Awards and accolades
Mastercooks of Belgium

Michelin Star 2023
Michelin Green Star 2021

Gault & Millau ‘Sustainability Award’ 2022
Gault & Millau ‘Best Vegetable Chef’ 2019

We’re Smart Guide 10 Best Vegetarian Restaurants in the World
We’re Smart Guide Best Vegan Restaurant in the World 2019

Number 1 in 360° Eat Guide 2023

50 Best Restaurants – 50 Best Discovery

In the rapidly evolving world of food technology, few names resonate as profoundly with innovation and sustainable development as Professor Mark Tester. As a luminary in plant science at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Professor Tester has dedicated his career to addressing some of the most pressing challenges in agriculture. Serving as the Associate Director of the Center for Desert Agriculture, his work is pivotal in transforming arid landscapes into fertile grounds for food production.

Professor Tester's journey in plant science is marked by significant achievements and contributions. Before his tenure at KAUST, which began in February 2013, he was celebrated as an ARC Federation Fellow and professor of plant physiology at the University of Adelaide. It was there he spearheaded The Plant Accelerator initiative, a cornerstone in plant phenomics research. His academic prowess was nurtured at the University of Cambridge, where he not only served as a Senior Lecturer but also earned his PhD in 1988, laying the groundwork for a career that would become synonymous with groundbreaking research in plant science.

In 2019, Professor Tester took on the role of Head of the Food Sector at NEOM, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to advancing food security and sustainability on a global scale. However, it is perhaps his role as co-Founder and Chief Scientist of Iyris formerly known as Red Sea Farms that best encapsulates his vision for a sustainable agricultural future. At Iyris, Professor Tester is at the forefront of developing innovative saltwater-based agricultural systems. This revolutionary approach not only promises to significantly reduce freshwater use in agriculture but also offers a resilient solution to food production in some of the world's most water-scarce regions.

Through his pioneering work, Professor Tester is not just redefining the boundaries of agricultural science; he is actively contributing to the global effort to ensure food security in the face of climate change and limited natural resources. His dedication to developing sustainable food production systems reflects a deep commitment to the planet and its inhabitants, making him a beacon of hope and innovation in the quest for a more sustainable and food-secure world. As we sit down with Professor Tester on the FoodTech Junkies podcast, we delve into the mind of a scientist who is not only shaping the future of agriculture but also inspiring a new generation to think differently about how we grow our food.

About Mark Tester

Iyris - formerly known as Red Sea