A look behind the scenes of the food industry
On March 4, 2026, the Association of the Food Industry in Vienna will publish the first issue of the trade journal DIE ERNÄHRUNG. This issue promises an in-depth analysis of the challenges currently facing the food industry. In an interview with the journal, Stephan Büttner, Chairman of the Association, provides insights into current hot topics such as the debate over food prices and the effectiveness of fiscal interventions against inflation.
Why fiscal interventions do not work
Fiscal interventions and price commissions are often discussed as solutions for combating inflation. However, Büttner explains why these measures are hardly effective. He advocates for an ambitious industrial policy and stable framework conditions, which can be guaranteed through peace and prosperity.
- Less regulation: The industry needs more freedom to operate efficiently.
- Stable framework conditions: Without peace and economic stability, growth is difficult to achieve.
Parents as nutrition educators
Andrea Stoidl of the Austrian Advertising Council emphasizes that ethical and moral values are more important than ever as trust-building foundations in nutrition education. A recent study shows that parents see themselves as the primary influencers of their children's nutrition education. This raises the question of how the food industry can incorporate these findings into its strategies.
Ultra-processed foods under the microscope
Another focus of the issue is on highly processed foods, also known as "Ultra-processed foods (UPF). They contribute to daily energy and nutrient intake. However, numerous studies also show associations between high UPF consumption and non-communicable diseases.
The truth about UPF
Experts such as Martin Smollich and Martina Kalischuk from the Institute of Nutritional Medicine at the University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, as well as Daniel Wefers from Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, have examined the current evidence on UPF. Their conclusion: the body of studies is based predominantly on observational data and is characterized by methodological limitations.
Elisabeth Sperr and Marlies Gruber from Forum Ernährung Heute confirm similar findings in their fact check. The degree of processing alone does not determine a food's health value. More decisive are nutritional quality, food choices, portion sizes, and a healthy lifestyle.
Gluten measurement revolutionizes the art of baking
Another highlight of the issue is the new method for measuring gluten in wheat, developed by DER ALIMENTARIUS prizewinner Rafaela Scheibelberger. This method could revolutionize the baking industry by improving the quality and consistency of baked goods.
Why gluten is important
Gluten is a network of proteins that forms when wheat flour is mixed with water. It gives doughs their elasticity and ensures that pizza dough can be stretched well, while a baguette retains its shape. The new measurement method could help bakers tailor their products even more closely to consumers' preferences.
Legal insights from Switzerland
In the legal section, attorney Maren Langhorst of Food Lex AG in Bern explains Swiss legislation compared with the EU. These analyses are particularly valuable for companies operating internationally that need to understand the differences in legal frameworks.
Discussion in Brussels
Cecilia Prikoszovits from the Association of the Food Industry reports on a high-profile discussion event in Brussels. Competitiveness and the reduction of bureaucracy were discussed there as key topics for the food sector.
Outlook: What will the next issue bring?
The next issue of DIE ERNÄHRUNGwill offer fresh impulses in the fields of science, technology and law related to food. The focus will be on Food Defense, an increasingly important topic in times of global uncertainties. In addition, an award-winning research paper will be presented that received the DER ALIMENTARIUS 2025 research prize.
Interested readers can request a free print copy or subscribe to the magazine to stay informed about current developments in the food industry.
Conclusion: A must for industry insiders and interested readers
The first issue of DIE ERNÄHRUNG offers in-depth insights and valuable information for everyone working in the food industry or interested in the latest developments. With a mix of scientific analyses, economic commentary, and legal insights, this magazine is an indispensable tool for decision-makers and interested readers alike.
