The ENFiber COST Action addresses the challenge of food processing waste by transforming it into high-value fibers through innovative and sustainable methods. The initiative supports waste reduction and the circular bioeconomy by promoting green extraction technologies and advanced characterization approaches for underutilized food by-products.

ENFiber aims to scale fiber production from food waste in a commercially viable and environmentally sustainable way. The project focuses on identifying fiber-rich waste streams, developing efficient extraction methods, applying non-destructive analytical techniques, evaluating environmental impacts, and supporting product development. Collaboration among researchers, industry, and policymakers ensures alignment with regulatory and market needs.

The Action is organized into Working Groups dedicated to extraction, characterization, product development, sustainability, and dissemination. ENFiber also promotes capacity building through Training Schools, Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSMs), Virtual Mobility grants, and industry-academic cooperation, with a strong focus on supporting early-career researchers.

Aligned with the EU Green Deal and circular economy strategies, ENFiber contributes to sustainable waste management and greenhouse gas reduction. The project aims to generate value-added products and market-ready technologies for the food, pharmaceutical, and packaging sectors while supporting more sustainable food systems.

Details on COST action
MoU - 020/25
CSO Approval date - 19/05/2025
Start date - 23/09/2025
End date - 22/09/2029

Action Chair:
Prof. Mecit Halil Oztop, Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi Ankara, Türkiye

Action members from IBISS:
Dr. Marina Soković, Department of Plant Physiology, IBISS
Dr. Dejan Stojković, Department of Plant Physiology, IBISS
Dr. Jasmina Glamočlija, Department of Plant Physiology, IBISS
Dr. Ana Ćirić, Department of Plant Physiology, IBISS
Dr. Jovana Petrović, Department of Plant Physiology, IBISS
Dr. Marija Ivanov, Department of Plant Physiology, IBISS
Mladen Rajaković, Department of Plant Physiology, IBISS