This pathway seeks to provide a way forward for future R&I policy in Europe and beyond. It is 1 out of 10 FOOD 2030 Pathways for Action, which target key R&I leverage points for transitioning towards sustainable, resilient, healthy and inclusive food systems that leave no one behind. The FOOD Pathways for Action will help to underpin Horizon Europe, support evidence-based policymaking and implementation, foster education, skills and capacities, boost innovation and investment, encourage synergies and policy alignment. The achievement of these objectives will be assisted by a dedicated Horizon Europe Food Systems Partnership expected to be launched in 2023 that will provide a multi-actor R&I governance platform and process to deliver co-benefits in line with the European Green Deal. This Pathway Food Systems and Data will contribute to the European Commission’s policy objectives of ‘A Europe Fit for the Digital Age’, of ‘the European Green Deal’ and of ‘An Economy that Works for People’. Data-driven innovations are transforming our economy and society. They also reshape the way we produce, consume and share food. Changes are fast and profound. For example in the ‘last mile’ of our food system, where innovative food retail, meal delivery and foodservice concepts (‘grab and go’ stores, online grocery, online meal delivery, cloud kitchens, meal kits) are bringing fundamental change for both companies and consumers.