The SchoolFood WasteSolutions team finds inspiration at RIGA FOOD 2025 – a meeting place of flavors, ideas, and innovations!
Last weekend, the traditional food fair RIGA FOOD 2025 took place in Ķīpsala, Riga, bringing together both industry professionals and food enthusiasts. It is the largest food exhibition in the Baltic States, annually highlighting developments in the food sector, showcasing the latest trends, and providing opportunities to connect with reliable and innovative companies.
The team of the SchoolFood WasteSolutions project, implemented by the Latgale Planning Region, was delighted to attend the exhibition — exploring the newest trends in the food world and engaging in conversations about sustainability, food waste reduction, youth involvement, and raising awareness in this field.
During the fair, visitors could take part in engaging discussions, masterclasses, and competitions, discover state-of-the-art kitchen equipment, and learn more about sustainability and opportunities to reduce food waste.
The team also met Inga Belousa, project coordinator at the NGO Zaļā brīvība, who shared research findings on food waste. Informative posters summarized why food is discarded, the scale of losses, and — most importantly — how to reduce them in both households and public catering. Visitors also had the chance to vote for best practice examples that help preserve the value of food.
At RIGA FOOD 2025, several representatives of Latgale food producers were also met, proudly presenting the competitiveness of products created in Latgale in the broader market perspective:
- SIA “Safīra L”, represented by Lienīte Litavniece, shared her memories of school catering and experience in sustainable school meals. The company specializes in processing plant-based products, offering vegan and gluten-free options such as fruit, berry, and vegetable powders. Within the project, food waste measurements are carried out in schools to identify effective solutions for reducing waste. Lienīte emphasized how important it is to educate children and parents about smart, eco-friendly, and healthy eating habits.
- ZS “Kotiņi” from Latgale, Balvi Municipality, presented its wide range of grain and legume products, flour, and oils. Owner Evelīna Ločmele recalled childhood eating habits and how they influence daily attitudes toward food. Their stand stood out with high-quality products and a welcoming atmosphere, giving visitors a deeper insight into the importance of healthy nutrition.
- SIA “Organic Products” from Latgale showcased “the power of nature” in every product — dried herbs, berry and vegetable powders, and teas. Owner Zanda Trukšāne shared her vision of preserving nature’s strength and reducing food waste, highlighting a sustainable approach to business.
RIGA FOOD 2025 truly became a meeting point of flavors, ideas, and innovations — for both gourmets and professionals. The exhibition proves that Latvia’s food sector is dynamic, innovative, and sustainability-oriented, offering practical solutions as well as inspiration for the future of gastronomy.
The SchoolFood WasteSolutions project is co-financed by the European Union. The Interreg Central Baltic Programme 2021–2027 strengthens cross-border cooperation to promote sustainable, innovative, and inclusive regional development.
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