TITAN is a Horizon Europe innovation project developing and demonstrating digital and analytical solutions that increase transparency across agri-food supply chains. The project applies technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things, rapid DNA-based detection methods, sensors and data-sharing tools to improve food safety, authenticity, sustainability, traceability and consumer information.

Modern food supply chains are increasingly complex, fragmented and dependent on many different actors, systems and outsourced processes. Limited data exchange and insufficient communication between stakeholders reduce visibility across the supply chain and make it difficult to verify the origin, safety, authenticity, health value and environmental impact of food products.

The food system also faces challenges related to food fraud, adulteration, undeclared allergens, microbial and chemical contamination, food loss and waste, as well as the lack of clear and reliable information for consumers. Small and medium-sized agri-food companies often face additional financial, technical and organisational barriers when introducing advanced transparency technologies.

TITAN aims to co-create, demonstrate and support the adoption of practical transparency solutions that contribute to a safer, healthier, more sustainable and affordable food system.

The project brings together universities, research organisations, technology providers, SMEs, non-profit organisations and agri-food stakeholders from 14 European countries. Its solutions are tested through pilot activities covering three main areas: food safety and authenticity, sustainability, and health and consumer information.

The technological approach combines artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things, rapid DNA and sequencing methods, QR codes, smart labels, sensors, digital platforms and secure data-sharing mechanisms. The project also addresses stakeholder requirements, interoperability, policy development, business support, training, communication, commercialisation and the wider adoption of project results.

TITAN develops and validates transparency tools that can be applied across different agri-food value chains. The project’s results support:

• improved traceability and verification of food origin and authenticity;

• faster detection of allergens, microorganisms and chemical hazards;

• more reliable sustainability information for farming, food production and distribution;

• reduced food loss, waste and operational inefficiencies;

• better access to health and environmental information for consumers;

• more informed purchasing and consumption decisions;

• accessible digital solutions and business support for agri-food SMEs;

• new policy, training and commercialisation resources supporting the adoption of transparency solutions.

The project creates value for companies by improving risk management, efficiency and trust; for consumers by providing more reliable information; for researchers and technology providers by supporting validation and market uptake; and for public authorities by delivering evidence and recommendations for future food-system policies.