2025 Meat Industry Forum at the DIL in Quakenbrück

The 2025 Meat Industry Forum brought together around 100 participants from across the entire value chain in Quakenbrück on September 3 and 4. The event kicked off on September 3 with a tour of the Böseler Goldschmaus facility, followed by an evening reception hosted by SLA Software Logistik Artland GmbH. In a relaxed atmosphere, guests took the opportunity to get in the right frame of mind for the upcoming technical topics and to build on their initial connections.

On September 4, Dr. Christian Hertel of the DIL (German Institute for Food Technology) opened the conference alongside Gabor Griego, the new General Publishing Director for Agricultural, Baking, and Meat Media at the dfv Media Group. The morning session focused on the major issues facing the industry: animal husbandry, housing labeling, and EU regulations. Dr. Albert Hortmann-Scholten provided an update on animal husbandry and housing systems and called for a more realistic approach to changing housing systems. Dr. Hanno Koerfer presented developments regarding rearing labels and the EU Deforestation Regulation and urged attendees to prepare well in advance. A lively panel discussion concluded the first session before guests had the opportunity to explore the world of innovation at DIL.

The Innovation Tour took guests through three of DIL’s research areas. In the field of image processing, modern color and hyperspectral cameras demonstrated how precise product recognition and quality control are driving automation in food processing. Artificial intelligence was also showcased, demonstrating how machine learning can make processes more efficient, sustainable, and accurate. In the areas of food physics and biotechnology, the focus was on alternative raw materials for sustainable chocolate products, as well as the BASOMEAT project, which processes fungal mycelium derived from agricultural byproducts into a protein-rich meat alternative. Another key focus was on process engineering and product development, where extrudates and high-moisture extrudates (HME) were presented as a sustainable basis for vegan meat substitutes.

The afternoon was devoted to additional technical presentations. Dr. Patrick Krampitz outlined the legislative requirements regarding the planned PPWR, particularly with regard to compostability, recyclability, and labeling requirements. Prof. Dr. Markus Schmid outlined practical and sustainable packaging strategies and emphasized the importance of product protection. Michael Martin highlighted the high demands placed on packaging materials in real-world applications and underscored the urgent need for action. Stefan Dangel discussed the role of modern packaging machines, which must ensure maximum flexibility and quality. Yusuf Kaya concluded the session with examples from fresh produce logistics in the context of the PPWR.

With two days packed with expert knowledge, in-depth discussions, and innovative insights, the 2025 Meat Industry Forum was a resounding success.

The DIL would like to extend its sincere thanks to all speakers, sponsors, and participants for their dedication and valuable contributions.