Meet the European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group (EHEDG) at FoodTech 2026!
At the EHEDG booth in hall M you can meet hygienic design experts and have a talk about all topics of hygiene, design, risk management, training and project management. At the EHEDG learning station you can test your knowledge, obtain a ‘mini-diploma’ and have a glimpse into EHEDG training programs. There is also an opportunity to have a preliminary design review performed on a new idea for processing equipment, sensors, etc. The evaluation will be performed by an EHEDG Authorized Evaluation Officer.
EHEDG provides clear, widely accepted design principles and certification that help demonstrate hygienic performance, differentiate products in the market, and meet customer and regulatory expectations. Design according to EHEDG guidelines reduces contamination risks, improves cleanability, supports compliance with food safety standards, and helps achieve more efficient and reliable production. Overall, EHEDG helps align engineering design with food safety, benefiting the entire food supply chain.
EHEDG Activities Program at FoodTech 2026
In association with FoodTech 2026 the European Hygienic Engineering and Design Group (EHEDG) is offering a setup where visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a series of short, inspiring talks that complement the hands-on activities in a Tech Playground. Over three days, the program will explore the knowledge, methodologies, and future technologies that are shaping the next generation of safe and efficient food production.
The seminars are designed for anyone with an interest in hygienic design and food safety. The seminar area is located right next to the EHEDG Tech Playground area, where practical learning, expert dialogue, and industry networking are combined.
Tuesday 27 October 2026: Knowledge & Competence Development
The first day focuses on building the knowledge and competencies needed to successfully implement hygienic design principles in food production. Hygienic design is much more than a set of technical requirements. It is a way of thinking that integrates food safety, operational efficiency, sustainability, and business performance.
Through two engaging sessions, visitors will gain an introduction to EHEDG principles and learn how structured competence development can help organizations improve decision-making, reduce risks, and strengthen compliance efforts. Whether you are new to hygienic design or looking to expand your expertise, Tuesday provides a strong foundation for the rest of the week.
Subject to change
Wednesday 28 October 2026: Hygienic Risk Assessment & Risk Management
On Wednesday, the focus shifts from knowledge to application. Modern food manufacturing increasingly relies on risk-based decision-making to achieve both compliance and operational excellence. The sessions will demonstrate how hygienic risk assessment can be used to identify design weaknesses, prioritize improvements, and support equipment selection and project decisions.
Visitors will gain practical insights into hygienic design risk management and learn how a risk-based approach can support the concept of Compliance by Design. Real-world examples and lessons learned will illustrate how organizations can move beyond checklists and create sustainable food safety solutions.
Subject to change
Thursday 28 October 2026: Robotics & the Future Factory
The final day looks ahead to the future of food production. Robotics and how hygienically design robots can transform manufacturing environments at an unprecedented pace. Thursday's sessions explore how hygienic principles can be successfully integrated into highly automated production systems and how future factories can achieve both operational efficiency and food safety.
Visitors will discover emerging trends and gain insights into the technologies that are expected to shape food production in the years to come.
Subject to change
