While eating habits are deeply rooted in our imagination, culture, values, and even our identity, convincing populations to adopt sustainable and resilient food practices presents a particular challenge in terms of social acceptability. As with other polarizing or controversial issues, it is helpful to return to the foundations of this notion of acceptability in order to understand the dynamics at play in these transitions.

For change agents, this first means reflecting on the relevance of their proposals in the eyes of the populations they are addressing, as well as on the values and social representations these proposals carry—representations that may, at times, need to be transformed. Issues of equity or environmental justice must also be considered to ensure that the promoted changes are accessible to all targeted groups, and to reflect on support or compensation measures intended for those who may face negative impacts from the proposed changes. Questions of feasibility—technical and financial—must also be taken into account. Finally, trust in the political and scientific authorities driving these changes plays an important role in the processes through which (in)acceptability is built.

In addition to these four principles, challenges also arise from the presence of interests that may oppose the desired changes. The case of the food transition is emblematic in this regard, as it disrupts long‑standing political and economic forces whose interests sometimes conflict with the idea of a food transition grounded in sustainability and resilience. Ultimately, this conference aims to provide a better understanding of these dynamics to more effectively navigate the headwinds that may hinder the necessary changes for a socio‑ecological transition in the food sector.

Practical Information

📅 Date and time: April 16, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM (4:00 to 5:00 PM in mainland France)
🎥 Recording: Available to all registered participants