SAAFoST’s 26th Biennial Congress unites global food science leaders in Pretoria this August to combat misinformation and drive innovation.
The South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) proudly announces its 26th Biennial Congress and Exhibition, to be held at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria. Under the transformative theme, “Unlocking Potential: Integrating Science and Innovation for a Brighter Food Future”, this premier gathering will unite global thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers in food science and technology.
The three-day event promises dynamic discussions, cutting-edge research, and actionable insights into reshaping the food landscape across Africa and beyond. Plenary sessions will feature a prestigious lineup of experts representing academia, industry, advocacy, and science communication.
Distinguished plenary speakers include:
- • Prof. Rikard Landberg, Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden – a leading voice in food research with a focus on nutritional bioactives and public health.
- • Márcia Terra, Nutri Insights, Brazil – combining consumer behaviour and science to promote better food choices and transparency.
- • Joseph Abu, Federal University of Agriculture, Nigeria – advancing food sustainability and agricultural innovation across African communities.
- • Yolande Schulz, R&D Director Emerging Markets: McCormick Flavour Solutions, EMEA
- • Anja Laubscher, Sally-Ann Creed, South Africa
- • Anthony Warner, UK food writer known as The Angry Chef – challenging misinformation and advocating for evidence-based nutrition.
A provocative plenary from Anthony Warner: Why food isn’t medicine and you aren’t what you eat
In his compelling presentation, Anthony Warner will analyse one of the most urgent issues in contemporary food communication: the rise of nutritional pseudoscience. His talk, titled “Why Food Isn’t Medicine and You Aren’t What You Eat”, raises thought-provoking questions:
“We have access to more information about nutrition, health and sustainability than ever before, yet never has it been more challenging to discern what is true and what should be ignored.”
Drawing on his extensive experience as a chef and science communicator, Warner will explore why food misinformation is so seductive—and dangerous. He’ll unravel how conflicting interpretations of evidence sow confusion and how pseudoscience disproportionately affects the most vulnerable. The session will offer pathways to counter false claims and inspire a more rational, compassionate food culture.
Join us in shaping the future
With South Africa’s rich food heritage and scientific innovation as its backdrop, the SAAFoST 2025 Congress invites media representatives to be part of an event that redefines how science, policy, and public awareness intersect in the food space.
Event details:
Dates: 25-27 August 2025
Venue: CSIR International Convention Centre, Pretoria, South Africa
How to register:
Media members wishing to attend SAAFoST 2025 are required to register in advance by visiting https://scatterlings.eventsair.com/saafost/media-registration. The registration will allow access to the event, exhibition, and designated press areas.
We look forward to welcoming you to the event and offering you an excellent opportunity to report on the exciting innovations and discussions shaping the future of food.
For additional information, please contact:
Tsetse Baloyi
Media Relations Manager, SAAFoST 2025
Email: tsetse@saafost.org.za
Phone: 071 870 2775
Website: https://www.saafost2025.org.za/
