Cologne: 09.–13.10.2027 #weareAnuga

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HORIZON Stage

Moderation and Formats

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The Anuga HORIZON Stage is more than just another item on the programme – it is a carefully crafted format. Every panel, every keynote, and every discussion is curated with a focus on relevance, dynamism, and depth of content.

Our experienced moderation duo guides the diverse programme of the Anuga HORIZON Stage with curiosity, expertise, and a knack for the questions that truly drive progress. They provide context, forge connections between speakers and the audience, and give ideas the space they deserve.

At the heart of it all are impactful topics: from technological innovations to products based on alternative proteins. The four thematic focus areas provide structure to the programme while leaving room for surprising impulses, critical insights, and new connections.

Inspiring, questioning, connecting:

Our moderation team on stage

With Marina Schmidt and Fabio Ziemssen, we have secured two of the most distinguished figures in the fields of future food, innovation, and transformation to moderate the stage. They bring uniquely different yet complementary perspectives to the table.

Fabio Ziemssen


Fabio Ziemssen has been a partner at ZINTINUS since 2021, a food tech growth impact fund that finances and promotes start-ups in the areas of alternative proteins, functional nutrition, clean nutrition and food waste reduction. Since 2019, he has been co-founder and vice chairman of the German association BalPro e. V., which serves as a platform for exchange and innovation in the field of alternative protein sources (over 120 members from start-ups, industry and politics).


Before joining ZINTINUS, Ziemssen worked at METRO AG – first as Head of Ecommerce (Food), then as Head of Innovation and finally, from 2017 to 2021, as Director of Food Innovation/CEO of NX Food, METRO AG's innovation hub for food innovations and alternative protein strategies. In this role, he built up a network of over 800 start-ups and led projects on vertical farming, functional food and food waste reduction, among other things.

Marina Schmidt


Marina Schmidt is the founder of KINETIK — The Founder Marketing Agency, a communications agency for science-based, impact-oriented start-ups. KINETIK supports founders in communicating clearly, building a distinctive brand and gaining visibility on the right stages and in the right media.


She is also the spokesperson for Blaues Brot, the most comprehensive audio documentary to date about our food system — available in German on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.


Marina has ten years of experience in strategic communication and media production. She works at the intersection of science, storytelling, and visibility. Originally from Berlin, she now lives and works in Lisbon.

Dialogue, Not Monologue

The HORIZON Stage thrived on dialogue – no rigid lectures, but genuine interaction. The diverse mix of formats ranged from impactful keynotes to interactive panels and participatory dialogue sessions. A particular highlight was innovative special formats that deliberately explored new paths through controversial discussions and unusual questions. Here, content was not only presented, but connections were made, debates were held courageously, and ideas were further developed openly. Open to spontaneous participation. Open to new perspectives. Open to everyone who wanted to actively shape the future.

Hot Take Debate


At Hot Debate, participants discussed the major questions of the day – an interactive format that shaped the future. It focused on bold statements and clear positions: agree or disagree, with opinions expressed openly in the room. A dynamic moderation ensured that discussions remained honest, focused, and lively. Without entrenched views, but with an open perspective on topics such as the future of nutrition, regenerative cycles, or the impact of AI on the food industry.

Truth or Drink


At Truth or Drink, barriers were broken down and doors were opened to unfiltered exchange. Two guests, uncensored questions, and the choice: answer or take a drink.


This intimate moment created space to explore topics such as health & functional food, innovative technologies, or circular processes – always personal, honest, and surprising. It was not a conversation easily forgotten. It was the future of nutrition, more tangible than ever before.

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Anuga Alternatives

Clear the stage for Anuga Alternatives! Anuga, no. 1 event for the food & beverage business, is presenting a new segment that exclusively revolves round the diversified product world from alternative protein sources. From algae and insect protein, mushroom-based protein, through to cell-cultivated meat.