Limburg secures millions for food innovation

Limburg has secured European funding for two innovation projects focused on agriculture and food. More than €2.8 million in ERDF support has been allocated to the LEAF and SENSUPPLANTPRO projects. Provincie Limburg is also contributing more than €220,000. The projects bring together Limburg-based companies, knowledge institutions, and healthcare partners. Participants include Universiteit Maastricht, Brightlands Campus Greenport Venlo, Botany, Whysor, and VieCuri.

“The pressure on agriculture and food production is increasing due to climate change, population growth, and rising demand for sustainable food,” says provincial agriculture executive Jasper Kuntzelaers.

Smarter technology for growers

The LEAF project focuses on smart sensor technology for greenhouse horticulture. The goal is to give growers direct insight into crop health. The technology should identify signs of drought, disease, and nutrient deficiencies at an earlier stage. This allows businesses to respond faster before damage occurs. According to the province, this supports more efficient use of water, energy, and crop protection products.

Universiteit Maastricht is leading the project. Botany B.V. is testing the technology in practice within tomato, cucumber, and strawberry cultivation. Whysor B.V. is developing the digital platform for processing sensor data.

Focus on plant-based food

Within SENSUPPLANTPRO, companies, researchers, and healthcare institutions are working on plant-based products. The main focus is on taste and nutritional value. According to the province, demand for plant-based food continues to grow. Within the project, partners are developing healthy and flavorful plant-based protein products and new plant-based protein sources.

Brightlands Campus Greenport Venlo and VieCuri are also involved in the project. Both projects receive support through the Interreg VI-A Germany–Netherlands program and are co-financed by the European Union.

Limburg.nl