The International Agricultural Fair 2025 (Salon International de l’Agriculture - SIA) took place in Paris from February 22nd, 2025 to March 2nd, 2025. This annual agricultural show and trade fair is of major importance for the agricultural sector in France. AgroParisTech is highly present and involved through many different activities. Thus, Bioceb’s professors and students in AgroParisTech had the opportunity to participate in the International Agricultural Fair.
Round-table discussion on Bioeconomy, bioresources and circular economy
On February 24th, Stéphanie Baumberger (Bioceb’s coordinator) participated in a round table on Bioeconomy, bioresources and circular economy AgroParisTech’s booth, organised by Agreenium, the French Alliance for Training and Research in Agriculture, Food, Environment and Global Heath.
This round table gathered researchers and teachers from:
– National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment (INRAE) : Monique Axelos and Hélène Fulcrand
– AgroToulouse: Valérie Olivier
– Institut Agro Montpellier: Eric Dubreucq
– École Nationale Supérieure d’Agronomie et des Industries Alimentaires of Nancy (ENSAIA): Yves Le Roux
– Oniris VetAgroBio Nantes: Samira Rousselière
– AgroParisTech: Stéphanie Baumberger and Sophie Carton.
After an introduction of the Bioeconomy concept by Monique Axelos (INRAE Scientific Head for Food and Bioeconomy), Stéphanie Baumberger focused on the biorefinery approach and explained the advantage of lignocellulose-based biorefineries regarding food vs non-food competition, management of agro-industrial waste, and flexible production of biomolecules and biofuels. She took the opportunity to exemplify synergies between training, research, and industry, through the European projects Zelcor and Bioceb. She didn’t miss emphasising the need for global actions taking into account the diversity of bioresources and value chain systems.
The audience included students from the M2 option “Chemistry and bioprocesses for sustainable development” of Institut Agro Montpellier, as well as socio-economic representatives, such as Sophie Marquis, Head of “Association chimie du végétal” (ACDV), and Laurent Bleuze, bioeconomy officer at the “Coopération Agricole.”
Round-table discussion on Erasmus + opportunities
On February 27th, one of our alumni, Gabriel Dauchot, a double graduate in AgroParisTech engineering and Erasmus Mundus Bioceb master’s degree, was invited at the booth of French Ministry of Agrictulture and Food to speak about his rich experience and his mobility experiences in Estonia and Belgium.
In addition to his technical skills, Gabriel has acquired personal skills, particularly multicultural ones. This represents a significant plus on his CV and his employability. He also stressed that it’s normal to be scared before embarking on such an adventure, across 3 countries, in a group of around twenty students of different nationalities... but he was keen to reassure people that he had been very well supported and that everything was being done to ensure a smooth integration into each country/university!
Stéphanie Baumberger, also spoke about her experience of mobility to Kenya at the University of Nairobi thanks to the Erasmus AC171 project supported by ParisTech and the enrichment she gained by comparing her teaching methods with those of Bioceb’s other partner universities.
Lastly, the round table highlighted the historic commitment of agricultural education to international cooperation and the Erasmus programme, as well as the importance of the latter in building European citizenship!
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Erasmus + at the International Agricultural Fair
Exploring Agriculture and Innovation: Bioceb Cohort 5 at Salon de l’Agriculture
Written by Lucy Burgess
What an exciting day for Bioceb Cohort 5 to experience the famous Salon International de l’Agriculture in Paris! An immersive event that brings together farmers, food producers, researchers, and agricultural enthusiasts from across France and around the world, it was a truly memorable experience!
Animal Encounters: From Dogs and Cats to Majestic Horses
Our day began at “Ring Chiens et Chats”, where we admired a wide variety of cat and dog breeds. Crowds gathered to admire the animals and enthusiastic breeders shared insights on responsible pet ownership. We had the chance to observe the Leonberger breed in action at the dog show, a panel of judges assessing the competition.
We continued exploring the fair and were impressed by a remarkable display of livestock, cows, sheep, goats and pigs. Farmers proudly displayed their prize-winning breeds, from the hardy Limousin cows to the famous Charolais cattle, while sheep of various breeds were being groomed for competitions.
Right next to the cattle, we witnessed how their milk is transformed into yogurt and cheese, giving us a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship behind dairy production—from farm to fork!
The equine section was equally impressive, with everything from elegant show horses to powerful draft breeds. It was clear that horses play a significant role in France’s agricultural and cultural heritage.
Particularly fascinating was the donkey and mule show, which broadened our understanding of their historical significance in France, especially in labour and agriculture. The star of the show was undoubtedly a national breed of long-haired donkey, Baudet du Poitou!
A Culinary Journey: French and International Delights
Working up an appetite, we headed for the French food and wine pavilion, a paradise for food lovers. We tasted creamy Camembert from Normandy, rich foie gras from the southwest, and more than one slice of saucisson! The wine section was especially impressive, featuring Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne producers, who explained the nuances of their craft. Adding to the festive atmosphere, Breton music filled the air, with traditional bagpipes and accordions setting the tone as visitors enjoyed specialties from Brittany, buttery galettes, fresh oysters, and cider. The lively performances created an immersive experience, celebrating the deep connection between regional gastronomy and cultural heritage.
Beyond French delicacies, we explored the international food pavilion where Francophone and European stands showcased their specialties. We sampled Spanish Iberico ham, Italian truffle-infused cheeses and Moroccan spices and cakes. The diversity of flavours showcased how agriculture is a global industry, with countries exchanging knowledge, ingredients, and traditions.
Innovation and Industry: Meeting Companies Shaping the Future
The fair would not be complete without the Agricultural Service and Trades pavilion, where cutting-edge innovations are presented by leading companies and emerging startups. The pavilion showcased a diverse range of sectors, from environment and energy to forestry and wood industries. Engaging with experts from various fields gave us valuable insights into the future of sustainable agriculture and technological advancements shaping the industry.
We explored booths featuring companies at the forefront of precision farming, methanization, and agri-technology, such as automated irrigation systems and AI-powered crop monitoring. Many of the technologies we had studied in our lectures came to life in a whole new way, offering a fresh perspective on their real-world applications. It was amazing to see firsthand how these innovations are transforming agriculture.
We listened as representatives from companies engaged in discussions about the future of sustainable agriculture and the challenges of feeding a growing population. Of course, we stopped by AgroParisTech’s stand to speak with our classmates and check out the virtual reality visit to Grignon Farm!
A Day to Remember
We wrapped up our day by strolling back through the French food and wine pavilion where we stumbled upon a lively brass band playing “Les Champs-Elysées”, the crowd was in high spirits, singing along. We couldn’t resist the urge to join in the fun and dance!
We left the Salon de l’Agriculture, filled with admiration for the dedication of farmers, the creativity of food artisans, and the exciting possibilities in agricultural innovation. A true celebration of the evolving world of agriculture, it was a day to remember!
Updated March 2025