The 2027 BIOFACH Congress will focus on organic farming’s role in building more resilient and sustainable food systems, with food security, climate resilience, value chains, health and policy among the main topics.

Taking place in Nuremberg from 16 to 19 February 2027, the congress will be held under the theme “Securing Food Systems – The Organic Way”. 

Joint organisers Biofach, IFOAM – Organics International and the German Organic Food Industry Association (BÖLW), are curating a programme around questions about how the organic sector can respond to pressures including climate change, biodiversity loss, geopolitical disruption and changing dietary patterns.

The programme will examine how organic agriculture and the wider food sector can contribute to food security through approaches such as climate-resilient farming, digital supply-chain tools and alternative protein sources.

The congress will address three broad questions: what is needed to secure food supplies; how organic farming can contribute to healthier food systems; and how policy and markets can support the transition.

Five thematic tracks

For 2027, the congress is replacing its previous forum-based programme with five thematic tracks. The organisers say the new structure will give participants a clearer route through the programme while allowing greater focus on specific areas of the organic sector.

Food Systems Transformation will examine food-system resilience and security, alongside innovation and social change.

Advancing Organic Agriculture will focus on developments in organic production, including soil fertility, biodiversity, climate resilience, production methods and value creation.

Retail & Value Chains will cover trade, processing, brands and supply chains, as well as the role of specialist organic retailers and emerging business models.

Policy & Markets will address regulation, certification, market trends and political developments affecting the organic sector at national and international level.

Food, Health & Impact will look at nutrition, health, planetary health, plant-based diets, longevity and research into the impacts of sustainable food systems.

The SustainableFutureLab, described by the organisers as an interactive think tank, is also being expanded. It will provide space for alternative approaches and debate around issues affecting the future of food systems.

The revised programme reflects a broader shift in the congress towards examining the resilience of food systems as a whole, rather than focusing solely on organic production. For the organic sector, the programme will consider how farming, processing, retail, foodservice, consumers, markets and policymakers interact in shaping food-system outcomes.

Main image: Biofach opening ceremony/NuernbergMesse / Frank Boxler