Raffaela Schreurs from New Generation Nutrition (NGN) represented the IPPEC project at the GIN-TONIC meeting in Innsbruck. This gathering — formally called Group on Insect Nutrition: To Open Nutritional Innovative Challenges —brought together researchers, PhD students, and professionals to exchange knowledge on insect nutrition and the role of insects in sustainable food systems.
GIN-TONIC?
GIN-TONIC is a European COST Action (CA23127) that unites research on insect nutrition. The network focuses on topics such as digestion, microbiota, protein and lipid composition, and methodology, aiming to improve the efficiency and sustainability of insect rearing. (cost.eu)
Linking research to communities
For IPPEC, the value of GIN-TONIC extends beyond scientific exchange. The project aims to build bridges between research and practice, creating links with different communities:
- Local farmers and insect growers benefit from knowledge on optimal diets to better valorize organic side streams.
- Feed companies and livestock producers are interested in nutritional profiles that make insects suitable as feed ingredients.
- Policy makers and sustainability initiatives look for scientific evidence to integrate insects into circular strategies.
- Educational and research institutions can use these findings to strengthen curricula and initiate new projects.
Raffaela introduced IPPEC to participants and explored where research topics align with the needs of these communities. This not only highlighted IPPEC’s relevance, but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations and data sharing
A network that creates opportunities
The strength of GIN-TONIC lies in combining science with community-building. In an open and collegial atmosphere, new connections emerge that IPPEC can leverage to:
- link ongoing research to practice-oriented projects,
- exchange data that benefits multiple partners,
- translate international knowledge into local and regional solutions.
Conclusion
Raffaela’s visit to GIN-TONIC confirmed that IPPEC is more than a research project: it is a network where science and communities meet. By actively engaging in initiatives such as GIN-TONIC, IPPEC connects scientific knowledge on insect nutrition with the practical needs of farmers, companies, policy makers, and citizens — strengthening the role of insects in sustainable food systems.
Want to learn more about GIN-TONIC? See the official page of COST Action CA23127 – Group on Insect Nutrition: To Open Nutritional Innovative Challenges on cost.eu.
