On Saturday, November 15, around twenty participants set off on their bicycles under a radiant autumn sun to take part in the event “On the Road for Open Science”, dedicated to exploring cultivated biodiversity. Wearing yellow vests branded for the occasion, they rode through the Minervois region to discover local initiatives promoting underutilised cereals and legumes such as poulard wheat, emmer wheat and grass pea.

Supported by the Carcassonne cycling club, this friendly cycling tour formed part of the citizen consultation conducted within the European project DIVINFOOD. Cycling was chosen as a fun and participatory way to leave laboratories, meeting rooms and videoconferences behind in order to engage directly with citizens and foster dialogue around scientific issues.

The day began at La Borieta in Carcassonne, where participants prepared their picnic while learning about the functioning of this farmer-run shop that brings together 70 local producers. The tour then continued to Villalier, at Pains et Pots bakery, run by a couple of artisan bakers and pastry chefs (Compagnons du Devoir). Having started alone five years ago, they now employ twenty staff members thanks to their commitment to local flours. This stop also provided an opportunity to complete the group picnic.

Lunch took place at the agroforestry farm of Mazy, where François, the owner, shared his passion for carob trees and highlighted the remarkable adaptability of this species to the region’s extreme climatic conditions. Participants were impressed by the diversity of species and varieties growing within his edible forest.

A stop at the SCIC Graines Équitables then offered insight into this local cooperative specialising in the storage and processing of a wide diversity of organic and locally grown cereals and legumes. The loop concluded with a convivial gathering at a newly inaugurated community café in Carcassonne.

In total, 65 kilometres were covered, bringing together participants of diverse backgrounds and bicycles — all united by a warm and enthusiastic atmosphere. Attendees are already looking forward to the next edition, eager to continue discovering initiatives across Occitanie and to exchange further.