From pumpkin seeds to wine and chocolate: flavours of Styria
What do pumpkin seed oil, handcrafted chocolate, biotech breakthroughs, and Styrian wine have in common? They were all part of the unforgettable experience shared by SMEOrigin partners during their 6th interregional meeting in the heart of Austria. Hosted in the vibrant city of Graz from May 20–22, 2025, the event turned into a flavorful and insightful journey celebrating innovation, tradition, and the power of local identity.
Day 1: Science Meets the Senses
The meeting kicked off at the elegant Meerscheinschlössl palace with a deep dive into food innovation. The congress on “Biotechnology in Food & Feed” brought together leading researchers and entrepreneurs. Participants explored how science is transforming our food—from recombinant protein production and fermented herbal extracts to vanillin biosynthesis and CO₂-based protein for animal feed. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as experts from universities and startups shared visions for a more sustainable and resilient food system.
Then, it was time to taste what Styria has to offer. In the evening, partners headed to Fleischerei Mosshammer for a networking session seasoned with Styrian delicacies - a warm welcome into the region’s proud culinary heritage.
Day 2: On the Road Through the Styrian Foodscape
Wednesday took partners out of the conference room and straight into the fields and factories where Styria’s most iconic flavors are born. First stop: Steirerkraft Kernothek, a must-see for anyone curious about the magic behind Styria's famed pumpkin seed oil. Here, guests witnessed the full process—from seed to bottle—while learning how regional branding drives global recognition.
Partners were also presented another unique but quite rare delicacy - the Styrian horseradish. A natural superfood that is now produced in very limited plantations in the region.
In the afternoon, the group visited ZIB Nikolai to explore local initiatives like GlaMur Food and the School of Regionality, where education and local identity intertwine to support the next generation of regional food advocates.
The day closed on a high note—literally—with a vineyard tour and traditional Styrian wine tasting at Weingut Pongratz. Over regional specialties and sunset views, partners discussed project milestones during the Steering Committee meeting and toasted to the future of SMEOrigin.
Day 3: Sweet Conclusions and Rooted Traditions
The final day offered one last burst of inspiration at the Zotter Chocolate Factory—a paradise of creativity, sustainability, and storytelling through sweets. From bean to bar, Zotter exemplifies how regional products can be transformed into global success stories with purpose and passion.
Looking Ahead: Taste, Talk, Transform
More than just a project meeting, the Graz event was a celebration of regional character, scientific curiosity, and cross-border collaboration. As partners return home, they carry more than notes and photos—they carry stories, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to shaping policies that support authentic, sustainable, and competitive food SMEs.
Stay connected with SMEOrigin as we continue our journey across Europe, unlocking the potential of local products one region at a time.