African Food Science Fair
Children, teenagers and adults are invited to meet researchers, chefs, food experts, artists, and community members. Together, we'll discover the stories, traditions, and innovations behind the food we grow, prepare, and share. From cultural heritage and health to sustainability and new food technologies.
A world of discovery
Learn about who grows the cocoa beans and make your own chocolate. Taste a rainbow of beans from Burundi, which help farmers adapt to climate change.Taste edible insects to explore new flavours which are not easily available on the market. Extract DNA from a banana using everyday kitchen tools.Take part in the Customs Officer Challenge and inspect mock luggage contents and decide whether food products are allowed, prohibited or require further scientific identification. And there is much more to explore.
A unique encounter with African diaspora food organizations
Meet the communities behind the food. Discover the innovations driven by African diaspora agrifood organizations and startups. Food enthusiasts and experts will share their life’s work to raise the visibility of African and African diaspora food systems.
A curated African food menu
During the event, cheffe Jumah from Jumah’s Corner will take over the museum’s brand-new Africafé. Visitors of all ages and culinary backgrounds, prepare to be delighted by her curated African food menu!
A collaboration between citizens and researchers
Roots and Recipes, The Science of food, identity and belonging, is a fun-filled culinary adventure taking place on 25 and 26 September 2026 at the AfricaMuseum, as part of the European Researchers’ Night, Europe's largest celebration of science and research.
Throughout the two days, join researchers, culinary experts and food enthusiasts as you explore the rich and fascinating world behind African and diaspora cuisines, their impact on our health, their role in our societies, and their connection to our roots.
The cornerstone of Roots and Recipes is The Citizens’ Committee. It reunites six experts representing African diaspora communities, each with deep knowledge of food systems. With diverse profiles, ranging from educators to food entrepreneurs, they have played a key role in guiding the project’s decision-making processes.
Join the screening on Friday 25 of September
Learn more about the programme of day one.
Location
AfricaMuseum
Programme
12:00 – 17:00 Food Science Fair, with demos and workshops for kids 6+
17:00 – 17:45 Music concert
12:00 – 17:00 African lunch or snack by Cheffe Jumah
The event is free, subject to booking. The event ticket does not include access to the exhibitions. Booking for the African lunch or snack is compulsory and subject to a charge, and must be made via the online ticket office.