Sensory analysis in food testing and engaging students in food system phenomena, hibernating cells for breeding and a sustainable food system, biodiversity and conservation breeding for the protection of genetic resources – for bringing visitors to the agricultural fair closer to knowledge in these areas, scientists from the Institute and experts from our Research Station in Popielno were awarded the “HIT OF THE FAIR” statuette.

– This award proves how important it is for science to be present in the public consciousness. Farmers are the target audience of the activities carried out as part of the EIT Food GROW project, so we are all the more pleased that it is agroWARMA2025 that has recognized our efforts. – says Dr. Tomasz Jeliński, the Institute’s project coordinator.

In addition to agriculture, education was also a prominent theme during the fair. – Visitors to our stand gratefully emphasized the importance of conveying knowledge in a friendly and interesting way, seeing that their children were eager to listen to scientists, look through microscopes, and engage their noses and hands while learning about the senses in food testing. The way we convey knowledge is a priority in our EIT Food FoodEducators project, and we are happy when we can reach a wider audience with our activities. – summarizes Justyna Banasiak, the Institute’s project coordinator.

The institute’s stand also featured topics inextricably linked to the Research Station in Popielno: Brutus the hybrid, a long-time resident of the Station, who was taxidermied as a memento of his uniqueness and now serves as a museum exhibit, Polish konik horses, and other activities aimed at protecting biological diversity. The full repertoire of activities prepared for guests of the 31st Autumn Agricultural Fair by the Institute’s staff has been described here.