EuroMedC itrusNet will explore the frontiers of knowledge in citrus sector research and closely addresses the main objectives of the "Thematic Priority 5: Food Quality and Safety" as well as important needs of society (e.g. quality of life). The main project outputs will be:
<UL> <LI> A sustainable Mediterranean network for the citrus sector to support research relevant to safe and high quality cross-border supply chains. A needs assessment survey to focus research and development on improving safety and quality including policy recommendations and an action plan of research agendas.
<LI> Targeted measures to facilitate access to knowledge, training and technology to increase SME participation in re search, improve the exploitation of results, and accelerate innovation.
<LI>Mediterranean Networking initiatives to stimulate international co-operation and support policy development by integrating current related research and providing added value.
The citrus industry's importance to the Mediterranean is clear, its countries being among the world's top producers and Europe one of the largest consumers. Increased demand in recent years has been fuelled by the promotion of fruit for a well-balanced diet and consumer awareness of citrus fruit benefits.
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Innovation and ongoing research are necessary to further improve quality and ensure safety at all stages of the supply chain, raising competitiveness, quality of life and consumer confidence. There is a need to integrate research in this area, which the proposed project will promote using initiatives to stimulate cooperation, both internationally and between research organisations and commercial operators including SMEs, to create a network of horizontal research interest, especially for the Mediterranean region.
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For more information about this project, please visit the <a href="http://ec.europa.eu/research/biosociety/food_quality/projects/173_en.ht…; target="_blank">European Commission Food Quality and Safety in Europe</a> Web site.