Tuesday, Dec 9th - Thursday, Dec 11th 2025

General information

Welcome message

On behalf of the University of Zagreb Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology and the Croatian Society of Food Technologists, Biotechnologists and Nutritionists, we cordially invite you to join the 11th International Congress of Food Technologists, Biotechnologists and Nutritionists, which will be held in Zagreb, Croatia, from December 9 to 11, 2025.

Unlocking Science and Technology for a Healthier and Sustainable World” is the overarching theme of this prestigious event, which will bring together representatives from academia, the food industry, biotechnology and nutrition to discuss current issues related to the present and future of food. The congress underlines the important link between the industry and the scientific community, promotes collaboration and paves the way for future projects.

Assoc. Prof. Nikolina Čukelj Mustač, PhD Assoc. Prof. Maja Repajić, PhD Assist. Prof. Bojana Voučko, PhD

Source: Zagreb Tourist Board, author: Julien Duval

Experience Zagreb During Advent

Experience the magic of Zagreb during the renowned Advent season! Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the enchanting Christmas markets, enjoy traditional Croatian delicacies and delight in the enchanting Christmas decorations in the city. Zagreb transforms into a winter wonderland and provides a unique backdrop for this international gathering. Discover why Advent in Zagreb has been declared the Best Christmas Market by European Best Destinations (Brussels, Belgium) 2016, 2017 and 2018.

A World-Class Venue

The congress will take place at the luxurious Westin Hotel Zagreb, which offers an ideal setting for scientific discourse and networking with elegant accommodation and a state-of-the-art conference centre, including the prestigious Crystal Room.

Key Highlights:

Satellite symposium “Vera Johanides”: Focusing on the latest developments in biotechnology in Croatia.

Interactive Panels and Workshops: Engaging discussions on important topics in the field.

Young Researchers Section: A dedicated platform for young researchers (PhD students and postdocs) to present their research, connect with colleagues and compete for the Best Young Researcher Award.

Best Poster Award: A recognition for outstanding scientific contributions.

Rich Social Program:

  • City Sightseeing Tour: Explore the beauty of Zagreb during the Advent season.
  • Tram Welcome Cocktail Reception: Enjoy a unique and delightful networking experience while you explore the city.
  • Congress Dinner: A memorable evening of socializing and celebration.

We warmly invite you to join us in Zagreb for this exciting and insightful congress.

Organizing Committee

  • Maja Repajić – Chair
  • Bojana Voučko – Congress Secretary
  • Verica Dragović-Uzelac – Dean of the Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology
  • Irena Barukčić Jurina – President CROFoST
  • Sandra Balbino
  • Jelena Đugum
  • Sanja Vidaček Filipec
  • Marina Krpan
  • Andreja Leboš Pavunc
  • Nives Marušić Radovčić
  • Mario Ščetar
  • Monika Kovačević
  • Filip Dujmić
  • Marina Tomašević
  • Aleksandra Vojvodić Cebin
  • Ena Cegledi
  • Ana Dobrinčić
  • Saša Drakula
  • Marijan Logarušić

Scientific Committee

  • Nikolina Čukelj Mustač – Chair (CRO)
  • Draženka Komes (CRO)
  • Mladen Brnčić (CRO)
  • Jelka Pleadin (CRO)
  • Stela Jokić (CRO)
  • Pavle Jovanov (SRB)
  • Mirjana Hruškar (CRO)
  • Ivana Radojčić Redovniković (CRO)
  • Anet Režek Jambrak (CRO)
  • Danijela Bursać Kovačević (CRO)
  • Ivana Rumbak (CRO)
  • Blaženka Kos (CRO)
  • Antonio Starčević (CRO)
  • Igor Slivac (CRO)
  • Ivona Elez Garofulić (CRO)
  • Mia Kurek (CRO)
  • Natka Ćurko (CRO)
  • Tomislava Vukušić Pavičić (CRO)
  • Maja Benković (CRO)
  • Katarina Lisak Jakopović (CRO)
  • Martina Bituh (CRO)
  • Veronika Kovač (CRO)
  • Antonija Trontel (CRO)

Topics:

  • Nutrition through life cycle and prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases
  • Consumer trends and motivation associated with food choices
  • Functional food components and nutraceuticals
  • Reducing food waste
  • Advances in probiotics, prebiotics and gut microbiome research
  • Understanding and addressing specific dietary needs
  • Local gastronomy and the influence on global food trends
  • The impact of nutrition education on addressing global health challenges

Topics:

  • Food and feed challenges amidst climate changes
  • Alternative protein-sources and bio-based feedstock
  • Quality assurance methods and standards in food and water systems
  • Mitigating contaminants and adulterants in foods
  • Water quality and safety
  • Microbiological safety and mycotoxin control
  • Stability and shelf life optimization
  • Microplastics in food and water
  • Regulatory frameworks for ensuring food and water safety

Topics:

  • Sustainable food processing and nutrition
  • Smart packaging solutions in food technology
  • Fermentation technologies for tailored probiotics and functional food and beverages
  • Food waste valorization
  • Industrial and environmental applications of biotechnology
  • Feed technology – current developments and trends
  • AI, modeling and optimization in food technology, biotechnology and nutrition
  • Digitalization in Food Technology, Biotechnology and Nutrition
  • Flavour chemistry and sensory science
  • Advances in extraction and analytical techniques
  • Food matrix and ingredient interactions
  • Green chemistry