Innovative startups, new technologies driving agriculture change in Poland

With the cleanest air in Poland and one-third of the region covered in forest, Podlaskie is considered the 'green lungs of Europe'.

It is also aspiring to be something of a 'Silicon Forest' through its expanding technology and IT scene.

Historically one of the poorest regions in Poland, Podlaskie has benefitted from significant funding from the EU. The region is now classified an 'emerging innovator' by the European Commission.

One of those innovators is local startup, Ideal Bistro which has devised an ingenious way to bring freshly cooked meals, sourced from local farmers, to the workplace.

Workers choose their meal on an application, then collect it from vending-style machines called 'foodomats'.

Tomasz Kurzynka, Ideal Bistro co-founder, said the solution is unique, convenient and efficient.

"We can serve like 200 to 300 people during 20-minute breaks at once," he explained.

The technology prevents food waste by forecasting exactly how much farmers need to produce. It also gives them a guaranteed income.

Ideal Bistro has begun working with dieticians, and using artificial intelligence, to create personalised meals that match an individual’s health and nutrition needs.

As Poland's largest milk producer and a leader in agricultural machinery production, Podlaskie is looking to innovate in the primary industries sector.

Andrzej Borusiewicz, Professor of Agricultural Engineering, said the region wants to modernise agricultural production using the latest technologies, including robots and drones.

"This region is special because we have very high agriculture production. If we use modern technology, the food will be safer and more healthy. And the customers can buy cheaper food in the market. It can also help with green production,