Coding the Canopy: how food forests and AI can cultivate sustainable cuisine

In the quest for sustainable food systems, an ancient practice is taking root in modern agriculture: food forests. These multi-layered, diverse ecosystems mimic natural woodlands while producing an abundance of edible plants. As climate change and food security concerns intensify, food forests are emerging as a promising solution, offering a blueprint for resilient, productive, and ecologically sound food production.

The potential impact is significant. Experts project that food forests could contribute up to 5% of global food production by 2035, with the possibility of providing 20% of fresh produce in regions actively promoting agroforestry. These figures, while modest in global terms, represent a substantial shift towards more sustainable and localised food systems.

At the forefront of this green revolution is an innovative project that bridges the gap between traditional food forests and cutting-edge technology. The Minimal Viable Protein x Food Forest Flavors (MVPxFFF) Food Computer, developed by artists from Genomic Gastronomy as part of the S+T+ARTS Hungry EcoCities initiative. It is a prototype recipe generation tool that could revolutionise how we interact with food forests.

This digital platform generates ecologically-minded and nutritionally-complete recipes based on the expected harvest data from food forests and alternative protein producers. By combining the bounty of food forests with novel protein sources such as plant-based meatballs, precision fermentation eggs, insect flour or algae-based seafoods, the MVPxFFF Food Computer offers a glimpse into a future where sustainable eating is both accessible and appealing.

Currently, the MVPxFFF Food Computer is in its infancy, based on static data from a small number of test food forests. However, the foundation for expansion is in place and the code is open source. The next crucial step is the integration of real-time data, incorporating seasonal variations and climate predictions. This would transform the tool from a proof-of-concept into a dynamic system capable of responding to the ever-changing rhythms of nature, offering the tool to a wide network of food forests and alternative protein producers.

Despite its promise, the widespread adoption of food forests and supporting technologies like the MVPxFFF Food Computer face significant hurdles. Land use policies, particularly in urban areas, may need to be revised to accommodate food forests. Additionally, consumer education will be crucial; the seasonal and diverse nature of food forest produce requires a shift in eating habits, food appeal and culinary practices.

The MVPxFFF Food Computer and the broader movement towards food forests represent a promising direction for sustainable agriculture. By combining ancient wisdom with modern technology, we may be witnessing the early stages of a transformation in our food systems.

As climate change intensifies and populations grow, the need for resilient, productive, and ecologically sound food production methods becomes ever more pressing. Food forests, with their emphasis on diversity, sustainability, and minimal intervention, offer a compelling vision of the future.

The challenge now lies in scaling these solutions, from urban community gardens to large-scale agroforestry systems. Projects like the MVPxFFF Food Computer could play a role in this transition, bridging the gap between production and consumption, and making sustainable eating not just possible, but desirable.

In the grand buffet of global agriculture, food forests may currently represent just a side dish. But as we look to create a more sustainable and resilient food system, they may well become the main course. The seeds have been planted; now it’s time to nurture their growth.

PROJECT: MVPxFFF, Hungry EcoCities