A look behind the scenes of the food industry
On March 4, 2026 the Trade Association of the Food Industry in Vienna publishes the first issue of the trade journal DIE ERNÄHRUNG. This issue promises an in-depth analysis of the challenges currently facing the food sector. Stephan Büttner, chairman of the association, provides insights in an interview with the magazine on current focal points such as the debate over food prices and the effectiveness of fiscal interventions against inflation.
Why fiscal interventions don't work
Fiscal interventions and price commissions are often discussed as solutions to combat inflation. But Büttner explains why these measures are hardly effective. He advocates for an ambitious industrial policy and stable framework conditions that can be ensured by peace and prosperity.
- Less regulation: The industry needs more freedom to be able to operate efficiently.
- Stable framework conditions: Without peace and economic stability, growth is difficult.
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 integrate these findings into its strategies.
Highly processed foods under the microscope
Another focus of the issue is on highly processed foods, also known as Ultra Processed Foods (UPF). These contribute to daily energy and nutrient intake. But 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 Hospital 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 mainly based 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 the health value of a food. What matters more 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 award winner 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 protein network that forms when wheat flour is mixed with water. It gives dough its elasticity and ensures that pizza dough can be stretched well while a baguette retains its shape. The new measurement method could help bakers better tailor their products to consumer preferences.
Legal insights from Switzerland
In the legal section, attorney Maren Langhorst from Food Lex AG in Bern explains Swiss legislation compared to the EU. These analyses are particularly valuable for companies operating internationally and needing to understand the differences in legal frameworks.
Discussion in Brussels
Cecilia Prikoszovits from the Trade Association of the Food Industry reports on a high-level discussion event in Brussels. There, competitiveness and deregulation were discussed as key issues for the food sector.
Future outlook: What will the next issue bring?
The next issue of DIE ERNÄHRUNG will provide fresh impetus in the fields of science, technology and law surrounding food. The focus will be on Food Defense, an increasingly important topic in times of global uncertainty. In addition, an award-winning research paper that received the DER ALIMENTARIUS 2025 science prize will be presented.
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 journal is an indispensable tool for decision-makers and interested parties alike.
