The Integrated Project SEAFOODplus has been granted under the area 'Total Value Chain' within Priority 5 of Framework Programme 6 as drafted by DG Research. The topic described as 'Quality seafood for improved human health and well-being' is however a topic highly relevant for DG Fish as well, and this DG also grants many projects impacting the seafood area.
With the purpose of future contacts to coordinate research activities, the SEAFOODplus project was presented to DG Fish at a meeting 22 October 2003. Head of Unit, Willem Brugge, welcomed the granting of the project and expressed great interest in future contacts between SEAFOODplus and DG Fish. Several areas of mutual interest were identified, and some specific projects granted by DG Fish were mentioned as being very close to the research within SEAFOODplus. Among these were particularly projects within aquaculture and seafood safety.
As an example it could be mentioned that some researchers within SEAFOODplus working with viruses in bivalves have also obtained funds from DG Fish. Another area is aquaculture, where DG Fish grants projects under Priority 8 of Framework Programme 6. Some of these concerns ethical and husbandry practices also considered within SEAFOODplus.
For the reasons given, it was agreed to have regular contacts between SEAFOODplus and DG Fish to get the best synergy out of the research being granted within FP 6. It is particularly welcomed that DG Fish supports the importance of considering the whole value chain from the living fish and marine organisms through the production of seafood for improving human health.
