Bridging scientific research and industry innovation for a more sustainable food system
How can research help address the real-world challenges facing animal agriculture and food security? This question was central to the discussions at the Animal Feed Manufacturers Association (AFMA) Forum 2026, where the University of Johannesburg’s Postharvest and Agroprocessing Research Centre (PARC) was represented by Dr Tafadzwa Kaseke, PARC’s Senior Researcher, and Mr Sipho Tonisi our third-year PhD student.
Held from 8–10 September 2026 at Sun City, North West, the 12th AFMA Forum brought together stakeholders from across the feed-to-food value chain under the theme “The Feed Factor – The Chain That Feeds a Nation.” The forum explored the essential role of animal feed in supporting livestock production, food security, food safety and the resilience of agricultural systems.
The programme extended beyond feed manufacturing to examine the wider forces shaping the industry, including sustainable animal nutrition, antimicrobial resistance, market dynamics, artificial intelligence, digital technologies and innovations in feed production. These discussions highlighted the growing need for scientific research, technological advancement and industry collaboration to work together in developing practical solutions for a changing agricultural landscape.
For PARC, participation provided a valuable opportunity to engage with industry stakeholders, gain insight into emerging priorities within the animal feed sector and consider how research can better respond to practical industry needs. Such engagement is important in strengthening the connection between scientific knowledge and its application across agricultural value chains.
The participation of both an established researcher and a doctoral student also reflected the importance of connecting research expertise with emerging scientific talent. Exposure to industry perspectives helps researchers better understand the challenges that shape innovation beyond the laboratory, while creating opportunities to identify shared interests and potential areas for future collaboration.
As PARC continues to advance research in postharvest technology, agroprocessing and sustainable food systems, engagement with related industries remains an important part of ensuring that scientific innovation is relevant, responsive and capable of contributing to broader agricultural development.
Through participation in the AFMA Forum 2026, PARC reaffirmed its commitment to building connections between research and industry, fostering knowledge exchange and contributing to collaborative approaches that support more sustainable and resilient food systems.
- Date: 8-10 September 2026
- Location: Sun City, North-West