To improve the quality and sustainability of its shellfish, the Italian region of Veneto used ERDF funding to implement an innovative research project involving producers and researchers.
- 30 April 2021
Sosiaq, the Sustainable, safe, high quality project, had three main aims: to develop purification systems that eliminate viruses in shellfish which are harmful to humans; to ensure the products can be traced to their source; and to cultivate genetically stronger clams and mussels.
The first activity was carried out with an eye on the forthcoming release of an EU Regulation on maximum permissible viral contamination in shellfish.
Work on the traceability aspect found that shellfish have microbial ‘footprints’ unique to their area of origin. These can be used to identify illegally harvested products and to provide consumers with guarantees of origin.
Finally, a large-scale experiment in the Venice lagoon and an analysis of hundreds of samples revealed that characteristics such as size, quality and resistance to parasites are genetic. This can ensure better quality and sustainability.
With a total budget of EUR 897 094, the project was completed in October 2020.
More information
Programme/Project: ERDF Regional Operational Programme 2014-2020, Sosiaq – Sustainable, safe, high quality
Source article on: www.polesine24.it on 15/04/2021