From November 18 to 22, 2024, the University Residential Centre of Bertinoro (Ce.U.B.) hosted the Winter School dedicated to master's and doctoral students, organized by the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL) of the University of Bologna and Ce.U.B. The one-week course (32 hours) offered in-depth insights into innovation in the quality and production of traditional foods and beverages, with educational sessions led by industry experts and internationally renowned academics. The lecturers, professionals, and researchers from Italy, Norway, China, Germany, and Colombia, addressed key topics related to global challenges and market alternatives in the food sector. The event served not only as a training opportunity but also as a platform to foster intercultural exchange, idea sharing, and professional growth through group activities and networking moments. The scientific and organizing committee included Francesca Patrignani, Urszula Tylewicz, Pietro Rocculi., Massimiliano Petracci and Rosalba Lanciotti from the University of Bologna, along with Roberta Partisani (Ce.U.B.).