Perhaps most important for a transition

Increased preparedness and self-sufficiency in the food industry requires qualified employees.
In Sweden and most places in the world, in recent years there has been an increased understanding and a real need to increase self-sufficiency in terms of food supply. In Sweden, the issue of preparedness is very relevant and there are political initiatives at the highest level, as well as local initiatives and activities to improve and increase. This is of course a good thing. The issue is complex and I would like to highlight a factor here that is not always the one that is put forward – a skilled workforce.

Transformation requires new skills

We can run how many projects and initiate activities for increased primary production, industrial symbiosis, circular bioeconomy, domestic production of biofuels, recovery and processing of residual flows for our own processing of fertilizer (reduced dependence on imported mineral fertilizer), etc. Without qualified employees, we will not be able to manage a transition and all other good ideas and initiatives will be lost. Let me state that I am completely convinced that a transition is entirely possible in Sweden with the good conditions that exist, but we need qualified workers who can handle complex tasks in the processing industry, digitalization, automation, AI in agriculture, etc. This must of course be done in a way that is both climate- and economically sustainable. In a lean organization, a certain degree of system understanding is required from all employees for a circular and resource-optimized production model to be successful.

Forward-thinking companies take responsibility

It is therefore very gratifying that forward-thinking companies are getting involved and realizing that both Sweden’s and their own future stand and fall with their employees. They open up their operations to students and talk about their operations, potential and challenges. This is directly crucial for a future workforce supply and a continued innovative entrepreneurial climate. The interest and curiosity from inquisitive students is great – we must take advantage of that.
Two University of Applied Sciences programs, run by Folkuniversitetet Syd, Development Leader Green Industries and Sustainable Food Intrapreneur, held industry days for their students in Bjuv. Many thanks to cReal, NewCold, Solserv, Vramsgunnarstorps gods, Söderåsens Bioenergi, LyRos, Rosersbergsgård and Findus vänförening for opening their doors and sharing their experiences. We will all benefit greatly from this in the future.

Utilizing all the power of the mighty oat in your products
cReal is a business-to-business supplier of nutritious and sustainable oat-based food ingredients. cReal has developed proprietary cereal processing knowledge during over 30 years of research and development. Our process is uniquely gentle and solely based on oats, water, and oat malt which enables food applications of unique quality, functionality, and clean label features.

Smart logistics solutions
We are the world’s leading specialist for automated and smart logistics solutions within temperature-controlled storage.
With a high level of service and technical expertise, we provide services for the entire logistics need. From temperature-controlled storage with energy-efficient systems to services that simplify the entire logistics chain. With a focus on our customers, we constantly aim higher in everything we do. Our commitment extends far beyond our gates.

From table to soil
We deliver comprehensive circular solutions within composting, packaging and machine solutions.
Where waste becomes soil improvement in 24 hours.

Large-scale agriculture with sustainable management of water and biofertilizers
LyRos operates three large farms – Vrams Gunnarstorp, Lydinge and Rosendal.
Good soil health entails vibrant soils with well-functioning ecosystem processes and a high degree of resilience. Carbon storage in the soil and minimal leakage of carbon and nutrients are paramount. These factors are prerequisites for sustainable, long-term food production and green space management. Our circular fertilizer yields long-term positive effects on your soil health, fostering conditions for sustainable production.
Through EkoBalans’ digestate processing solution, you secure a guaranteed outlet while simultaneously diminishing your carbon footprint, cutting transportation expenses, and decreasing the necessity for storage space.

Taste, tradition and sustainability in one place
At Rosersbergs gård, our proud heritage, which stretches back to the Viking era, is combined with a strong commitment to sustainable and innovative farming methods. We care for both the land and the animals in our caring work. From our fields to your plate, every step reflects our promise of quality, ethics and transparency.
Rosersbergs gård produces around 5,000 free-range pigs each year, all raised in a system that gives them the freedom to move, browse and interact with their surroundings. Our pigs live in spacious indoor and outdoor areas, with plenty of room to move and enjoy the fresh air. This natural way of life significantly reduces stress and improves their health.

When looking ahead, it is wise to learn from history
Where better to do this than from Torsten Andersson, Findus Vänförening. Findus’s history reflects much of Sweden’s food history. An incredibly diversified range and the highest degree of innovation and quality. Findus vänförening is a non-profit association, which aims to nurture and further develop the special spirit of camaraderie and togetherness that contributed to the development of the Findus company and its brand characterized by entrepreneurial spirit and solid quality.

In short, in my opinion – With curious students and committed entrepreneurs in collaboration, we can confidently face the necessary change.