On 14 September 2026, the SAFOOD4MED held a Field day in Met-Alzizia and Seauada, Fakous Center, Sharkia Governorate, Egypt, bringing together researchers, vineyard owners, packaging manufacturers and regional agricultural authorities to explore the practical potential of agricultural by-products for the development of antimicrobial bio-based packaging

The event offered participants a hands-on overview of the different stages involved in the valorisation process. Field demonstrations showed how vine pruning residues and grape pomace can be collected, ground, shredded and pre-treated before being used for the extraction of valuable compounds such as polyphenols and cellulose.

Participants also had the opportunity to see active bioplastic prototypes, including films, trays and food-contact packaging formulations containing vine-derived antimicrobial compounds. The showcase allowed for a practical discussion on their performance, clarity and barrier properties in comparison with traditional petroleum-based plastics.

The Field Day went beyond the technical demonstration. Experts and stakeholders discussed key issues related to extraction efficiency, food-contact safety, shelf-life extension, market viability and the regulatory steps needed to support the future uptake of active bio-based packaging solutions.

An interactive Q&A and networking session also created space for exchange between vineyard and date palm owners, packaging manufacturers, researchers, cooperatives and local agricultural authorities, helping connect SAFOOD4MED research with the needs and opportunities of the local production system.

The event was organised by the Agricultural Research Center (ARC) of the Egyptian Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation within the SAFOOD4MED project, in collaboration with local agricultural extension services, viticulture and date palm cooperatives, and farmers from Sharkia Governorate.

By bringing research directly into the field, the initiative helped translate SAFOOD4MED’s circular bioeconomy approach into practical applications, strengthening stakeholder engagement and supporting the development of more sustainable food packaging solutions for the Mediterranean region.