Every meal connects us to a much bigger system, from the way food is grown and the landscapes that support it to what we choose to eat and its impact on our health.
Reading researchers are working across agriculture, nutrition, climate, biodiversity and consumer behaviour to explore how we can create healthier, more sustainable and resilient food systems with the lightest possible footprint on the planet.
in the UK for Agriculture & Forestry (QS World Rankings, 2026)
hectares of research farmland and specialist facilities
of cocoa plants move through Reading's International Cocoa Quarantine Centre
From one of the UK's largest food processing facilities to a dedicated sensory science centre and human nutrition unit, Reading's research infrastructure turns ingredients into evidence.
The Systems and Futures Hub connects Reading's science with policymakers, farmers, businesses and communities, translating food systems research into long-term, practical change.
Agrifood Futures is Reading's interdisciplinary research strategy tackling the defining challenges of our time - from climate-driven food production disruption to rising malnutrition and the degradation of our natural resources.
Our partners: Waitrose
A Knowledge Transfer Partnership helping more than 2,000 British farmers transition to regenerative agriculture to build healthier soil, richer biodiversity and more climate-resilient land.
Our partners: Yeo Valley
Named Best Knowledge Transfer Partnership at Innovate UK, our collaboration with Yeo Valley improved yoghurt production, reduced waste and drove measurable sustainability gains.
In the community: The 100% British chocolate bar
A food science master's student created an entirely British chocolate bar using Reading-grown cocoa - from pod to bar without ever leaving Berkshire.