As part of the Ireland Portugal Business Network's Innovation Conference 2026 in Dublin, Panel 1 — Food Tech and Health — will bring together innovators and experts from Ireland and Portugal who are helping redefine the future of nutrition, wellness, and preventative health through science, sustainability, and technology.
Taking place at the Guinness Enterprise Centre on Thursday, 18 June, this conversation will explore how evidence-based nutritional solutions, natural ingredients, and health innovation are shaping the next generation of FoodTech and wellness industries.
The panel reflects one of the conference’s central themes: how innovation across food and health sectors can contribute not only to human performance and longevity, but also to more sustainable and responsible approaches to wellbeing.
Joining the discussion will be Tiago Ferreira, CEO and Co-Founder of Suplendi, a Portuguese startup developing science-led nutritional solutions focused on human health, recovery, and longevity. Guided by a philosophy of combining clinical evidence with natural ingredients and ethical innovation, Tiago and his team are working to bridge the gap between scientific research and real-world wellness applications.
Representing Ireland’s thriving health and nutrition sector will be Nicola Sainty from Revive Active. A nutritional therapist, educator, media contributor, and workplace wellbeing specialist, Nicola brings extensive expertise in translating nutrition science into practical, accessible strategies for healthier living and improved workplace performance. Her work focuses on making evidence-based nutrition engaging, relatable, and impactful across both corporate and consumer environments.
The panel will also feature Paul O'Connor, Founder and CEO of This is Seaweed Ltd., based at NovaUCD. Drawing on his background as a marine biologist, Paul has built a business centred on sustainable seaweed ingredients for people, pets, and plants. His work highlights the growing role of marine-based nutrition and sustainable food sources in the future of health and wellness.
Moderating the conversation will be IPBN member Kayleigh-Ann Ní Mhaoilmhuire, Head of ESG at Lawler Sustainability. With a multidisciplinary background spanning sustainability, energy management, communications, and ESG strategy, Kayleigh-Ann brings a strong perspective on how sustainability and innovation are increasingly interconnected within the food and health sectors.
Together, the panel will explore topics including:
This promises to be a fascinating and highly relevant discussion for anyone working across health, nutrition, sustainability, innovation, food production, or wellness industries.
Click here to register to join us in Dublin for a morning of insight, collaboration, and cross-border exchange between Ireland and Portugal’s growing FoodTech and health innovation ecosystems.
Many thanks again to Revive Active and Nick's Coffee for sponsoring the conference!
| The IPBN is supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Ireland under the ESP Grant programme |
