In the intricate web of the agri-food system, a hidden world of microbial networks is at play, influencing everything from soil health to human well-being. A recent review published in the journal *Frontiers in Science* (translated from English as “Frontiers in Science”) sheds light on how these microbiomes can be harnessed to create more sustainable food systems and improve human health. The review, led by Paula Fernández-Gómez of the Teagasc Food Research Centre in Ireland, explores the interconnected roles of microbiomes across the food system and the potential applications of microbiome-based solutions.
The agri-food system is a complex network that includes soil, marine environments, primary agriculture, farming, food processing, and distribution. Each of these components hosts a unique microbiome—a community of microorganisms that interact with each other and their environment. Advances in “omics” technologies, such as metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, metaproteomics, metabolomics, and culturomics, have allowed researchers to delve deeper into these microbial networks, uncovering their dynamics and interactions.
Fernández-Gómez and her colleagues highlight how this growing knowledge can be leveraged to develop innovative solutions for various challenges in the food system. For instance, understanding the microbiome of crops can enhance their resilience and productivity, while insights into animal microbiomes can improve their health and performance. In fishing and aquaculture, microbiome mapping can refine management practices, and in food distribution, it can prolong shelf life and reduce spoilage.
One often-overlooked aspect of microbiomes is the role of bacteriophages—viruses that infect bacteria. These bacteriophages can significantly shape microbial communities, and understanding their interactions could open new avenues for microbiome-based solutions. Additionally, the review discusses the impact of diet on the human gut microbiota and, in turn, human health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the food system and human well-being.
Despite these advances, the authors note that our knowledge remains incomplete in certain areas. They stress the need for targeted experimental approaches to fill these gaps and move beyond merely predicting microbiome functionality. “We need to go beyond prediction and delve into the functional aspects of microbiomes,” Fernández-Gómez said. “This will require collaboration between stakeholders and regulators to ensure safety, efficacy, and widespread adoption.”
The potential commercial impacts of this research are substantial. For the energy sector, understanding and manipulating microbiomes could lead to more efficient bioenergy production, such as through improved fermentation processes or enhanced biomass degradation. Additionally, microbiome-based solutions could contribute to more sustainable agricultural practices, reducing the need for chemical inputs and mitigating environmental impacts.
As we look to the future, the development of microbiome-based innovations in food systems holds promise for improving the health of animals, humans, and the environment globally. However, realizing this potential will require a concerted effort from researchers, industry stakeholders, and regulators. By working together, they can unlock the full potential of microbiomes to create a more sustainable and healthier future.
The review, published in *Frontiers in Science*, serves as a call to action for further research and collaboration in this exciting and rapidly evolving field. As Fernández-Gómez and her colleagues have shown, the interconnected world of microbiomes offers a wealth of opportunities for innovation and improvement in the agri-food system.