Food 4 Future Barakaldo

Food 4 Future – Expo FoodTech is a trade fair dedicated to innovation in the food and beverage industry. Since its debut in 2021, it has brought together international decision-makers, thought leaders, startups, and technology pioneers each year at the Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC) in Barakaldo, near Bilbao. The name "Food 4 Future" symbolizes the fair’s core mission: promoting forward-thinking solutions across the entire food value chain with a focus on technological progress, sustainability, and economic viability. The event is organized by NEBEXT (Next Business Exhibitions), an experienced host of future-focused B2B events.

Food 4 Future stands out for the depth of its thematic focus. It addresses current challenges and opportunities in modern food systems—from alternative protein sources such as plant-based meat, algae, and insects to AI-driven production, smart packaging, and carbon-neutral supply chains. It showcases how automated and digitalized food production is becoming a reality, and how technologies like blockchain, biotechnology, and personalized nutrition are enhancing consumer safety and health.

A key component of the event is its comprehensive conference program. The Food 4 Future World Summit brings together more than 450 international experts from science, industry, and policy. Across a wide range of presentations and discussion formats, topics include smart manufacturing, regenerative food systems, and disruptive business models. A particular highlight is the FoodTech Startup Forum, which gives emerging companies a platform to present their groundbreaking ideas—often in direct proximity to potential investors, especially through the FoodTech Investment Forum. Additional program elements include the Packaging 4.0 Congress, guided technology tours, and targeted networking opportunities.

The trade fair attracts a diverse professional audience, including food producers, agricultural and aquaculture companies, as well as providers in packaging, logistics, and technology. Retailers, investors, and policy makers are also represented. Experts from R&D, executive management, procurement, production, and quality assurance gain valuable insights for strategic partnerships and future innovations.

With its clear positioning as a platform for future-oriented food technologies, Food 4 Future – Expo FoodTech has established itself as a showcase for the industry and a driving force for sustainable transformation in Europe. The choice of venue is deliberate: the BEC is one of Spain’s most advanced exhibition centers, offering excellent connections to the airport, highway network, and public transport. It is located near the dynamic city of Bilbao, itself a symbol of successful structural change and technological innovation.

The Food 4 Future takes place annually, and therefore for the 6th time previsibly in May 2026 in Barakaldo.