KURU project update: Survey studies and regional engagement making steady progress

Since its launch in September 2025, the KURU project has advanced strategically toward its practical implementation phases. During the early part of 2026, preparations for surveys mapping consumer food behavior have reached their final stages, and the project has maintained an active presence at regional events across South Ostrobothnia.

Survey studies build a knowledge base on consumer food choices

Preparations for the project’s research surveys in work packages 2 and 3 are progressing as planned. A central focus has been the formulation of survey scales adapted from peer-reviewed studies and their localization to the Finnish context. These surveys have already been piloted to ensure technical functionality and to refine the research content.

The objective is to collect precise data on how sustainability, healthiness, and their link to great taste come together in consumers’ daily food choices. The selection of partners for the data collection is currently underway, with the main data collection phase scheduled to be carried out during the first half of 2026.

Regional engagement in South Ostrobothnia

The KURU project has actively engaged with the local community in South Ostrobothnia throughout the early part of the year. The project was featured at SEAMK-hankemessut on January 28, 2026, and an outreach event at Ideapark, Seinäjoki on February 7, 2026, reached a significant number of consumers. The feedback and discussions from these events have been invaluable for the project’s continued development.

Stakeholder meetings have laid the groundwork for upcoming co-development activities and future participation in regional events, such as Kauhajoen Ruokamessut (Sept 4–6) and Tietoprovinssi (Oct 22) at Frami. This ongoing dialogue ensures that the project remains closely connected with both industry stakeholders and consumers.

Follow the project’s progress on our website!