Paving the way for innovation in enhancing the intake of whole grain

A major objective of EU projects is to promote the communication of results and the transfer of technology in publications, presentations, dedicated conferences, training activities and websites. In HEALTHGRAIN the dissemination has been extended beyond these activities, by the creation of close links with stakeholders. These have been facilitated by the establishment of an industrial platform, nutrition information network and consumer communication panel. These and a range of other activities contribute to the overall objective of the project which is to improve the well-being of consumers and to reduce the risk of diseases related to metabolic syndrome in Europe by increasing the intake of protective compounds in whole grains or their fractions. The HEALTHGRAIN Forum association, established at the end of the project, is continuing these activities.This paper summarises the communication activities and describes in more detail the creation of networks during and after the project aiming at paving the way for innovation in the development of enhanced food products and the increased intake of whole grain by consumers.