European Technology Platforms (ETPs) are industry-led, public/private partnerships encouraged by the European Commission to drive innovation and unite stakeholder communities in reaching strategic research objectives of key European industry sectors. The main goals of the ETPs are to strengthen the European innovation process, improve knowledge transfer and stimulate European competitiveness across the food chain.

ETP Food for Life was created in 2005 under the auspices of the Confederation of the food and drink Industry of the EU (CIAA), following the principles of the Lisbon Strategy.

ETP Food for Life addresses innovation in the agri-food sector, which is the largest manufacturing sector within the EU.

 Since its establishment the ETP Food for Life has forged strong links with industry, academia and researchers in order to prioritise the major research needs for the EU food and drink industry and to secure the appropriate indicated what resources might be needed, where they might come from, and what other non-research issues will have to be addressed in order to ensure the European Research Area for the food sector becomes a reality.

The ETP Food for Life represents a unique opportunity for all stakeholders in the European food chain to increase their competitive strength and to safeguard the continued well-being and welfare of consumers across Europe.