Nestlé, Switzerland, joined forces with the Swiss Canton of Vaud, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) and the Swiss Hospitality Management School in Lausanne (EHL Group) to develop and promote a global innovation ecosystem on food and nutrition. The initiative, Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley, will launch in 2020 to further attract talent, start-ups and investment to the region.

The Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley addresses major challenges of the future of food and nutrition using cutting-edge science and technology—from agriculture to waste, from innovative products to healthy, sustainable diets.

“This new initiative will accelerate further the collaborations between all the players already present, and it will actually help to develop and reinforce innovation in the area of nutrition,” says Philippe Leuba, state councilor, Canton of Vaud.

"We look forward to collaborating in the Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley to further strengthen research and innovation in an area that is of key importance to Switzerland,” adds Martin Vetterli, president EPFL.

“With a reputation in the practical arts, honored by a Michelin star and a 16/20 Gault & Millau grade, the EHL Group, beyond its educational activities, has the responsibility to lead the way in a field that impacts everyone’s daily life around the world. This new center of excellence will be driven by shared values, and will enhance bridging economic actors and academic institutions that will forge together tomorrow’s industry," adds Michel Rochat, chief executive officer of EHL Group.

“Switzerland is home to a very unique innovation ecosystem for food and nutrition. Together, we can more effectively address global challenges such as delicious, nutritious and affordable nutrition for all, sustainable packaging and mitigation of climate change,” says Stefan Palzer, chief technology officer, Nestlé S.A.