Fifteenth International Conference on Food Studies, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa

CALL FOR PAPERS

https://food-studies.com/2025-conference/call-for-papers

Place: University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa + Online

Format: A mix of live, pre-recorded, and in person (at scale that’s allowed) presentations and social interaction spaces.

Dates: 8-10 October 2025

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SPECIAL FOCUS: Fed Up: Learning From the Past, Imagining New Futures

The Fifteenth International Conference on Food Studies, “Fed Up: Learning From Tradition, Imagining New Futures,” will be hosted in the vibrant heart of Pretoria, South Africa. The conference is dedicated to unraveling the intricate threads of food, culture, and sustainability that shape not only our local landscapes but also the global food discourse. In a world marked by abundance and scarcity, this conference serves as a forum to explore the multifaceted dimensions of food in contemporary society, transcending borders and boundaries.

We invite scholars, practitioners, policymakers, and food enthusiasts to join us to engage with renowned experts and thought leaders. Foster cross-cultural collaborations and share innovative research. Gain insights into South Africa's culinary heritage and its global impact. And be part of shaping sustainable and equitable food futures. Together, let's embark on a culinary journey that transcends boundaries, unlocking the wisdom of tradition and harnessing the power of imagination to pave the way for a more sustainable, nourishing, and inclusive world. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and nourished in mind and body. We look forward to welcoming you to this transformative conference.

Food Production and Sustainability:

South Africa's diverse ecosystems and agricultural traditions have long been intertwined with its rich tapestry of cultures. We’ll delve into sustainable farming practices, innovations, and indigenous knowledge systems. Our discussions will address how these practices can be harnessed to ensure food security for all while safeguarding the environment for future generations.

Nutrition and Health

As we navigate the complexities of modern diets and their impact on public health, we emphasize the importance of nourishing our bodies with local, nutritious ingredients. In the quest for improved well-being, we explore dietary diversity, indigenous superfoods, and innovative culinary approaches. Together, we'll uncover the intersection of traditional wisdom and cutting-edge research to promote healthier societies.

Politics and Policies:

Food is inherently political, entangled in the webs of policymaking, trade agreements, and global geopolitics. We analyze the implications of government policies and international agreements on food access, sovereignty, and justice. We invite dialogue on how we can collectively advocate for equitable and sustainable food systems on local and global scales.

Heritage, Culture, and Pop-Culture:

Food is not merely sustenance; it is a mirror reflecting a society's identity and evolution. Through gastronomy, we will delve into the depths of heritage, culture, and pop-culture, exploring the narratives and traditions that have shaped our culinary landscapes. From traditional dishes passed down through generations to the fusion of global cuisines in urban centers, we celebrate the diversity that enriches our culinary experiences.

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CONFERENCE THEMES

THEME 1: Food Production and Sustainability 
THEME 2: Food, Nutrition, and Health 
THEME 3: Food Politics, Policies, and Cultures

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ABOUT US

Founded in 2011, the Food Studies Research Network is brought together around a common interest to explore new possibilities for sustainable food production and human nutrition, and associated impacts of food systems on culture. We seek to build an epistemic community where we can make linkages across disciplinary, geographic, and cultural boundaries. As a Research Network, we are defined by our scope and concerns and motivated to build strategies for action framed by our shared themes and tensions.

https://food-studies.com/about

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RELATED CONFERENCES

We also offer related thematic events in our other Research Networks that you might be able to attend in-person. This way we build for our Research Network Members flexible, and at the same time resilient, spaces for communication, engagement, and participation.

View other Common Ground Research Networks conferences: https://cgnetworks.org/conferences/conference-calendar