From 19 to 21 May, partners, stakeholders, researchers and farmers gathered to share the latest DIVINFOOD results and discuss the future of our work on neglected and underutilised crops (NUCs), with a special focus in Italy on lupin varieties.

A highlight of the meeting was our visit to the Cooperativa Agricola Co.r.ag.gio farm near Rome, where several DIVINFOOD lupin varieties are currently being tested in field conditions. More than just a farm, Co.r.ag.gio is a cooperative deeply engaged in organic agriculture, biodiversity conservation, social farming and educational activities. The visit gave participants a concrete insight into how local initiatives can reconnect agriculture, food systems and territories while promoting fair and sustainable value chains.

We explored small plot trials and on-farm NUC cultivation, exchanged on seed selection, processing and farming practices, and discovered inspiring projects linking research, innovation and local food systems.

The final day focused on internal working meetings to prepare the last steps and legacy of the project.

A huge thank you to all stakeholders and partners for their energy and enthusiasm throughout these days. And a very special thanks to our Italian partners, FIRAB and Università di Pisa, as well as the Co.r.ag.gio team, for the warm welcome and excellent organisation. These inspiring exchanges keep motivating us to continue building more sustainable and diversified food systems together