15 June, 2026
The VASEACAD consortium met online on 15 June 2026 for its first coordination meeting, bringing together partners from across Europe to review progress achieved during the project’s first year and coordinate the activities planned for the months ahead.
The meeting provided an opportunity for work package leaders to present the progress made so far, discuss technical challenges, and agree on the next steps needed to keep the project on track. Representatives from all partner organisations participated, covering topics ranging from scientific research and pilot demonstrations to dissemination, stakeholder engagement and project management.
Scientific activities progressing across Europe
Partners reported encouraging progress across the project’s research activities.
Work has advanced on the production and characterisation of protein hydrolysates from several fish species, while additional enzymes are being evaluated to optimise the recovery of bioactive compounds. Preliminary laboratory results are helping the consortium identify the most promising processing conditions before moving to pilot-scale production.
The meeting also addressed practical challenges, including the international shipment of biological samples and the need to harmonise methodologies across partner laboratories to ensure consistent and comparable results.
VASEACAD high value products
Preparing for pilot-scale demonstrations
One of the main topics of discussion was the upcoming deployment of SINTEF Ocean’s Mobile Sea Lab in Malta, scheduled for early 2027.
Partners reviewed the logistical requirements for the pilot activities and discussed the selection of the most suitable seafood biomass to process. The decision will be based on the scientific results currently being generated by the consortium, ensuring that the pilot demonstrations focus on the most promising species and processing methods.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of close collaboration with industry partners to facilitate the successful implementation of the pilot trials.
SINTEF Ocean Mobile SeaLab
Communication and collaboration
The consortium also reviewed progress on communication, dissemination and stakeholder engagement activities. During the first year of the project, important steps have been taken to establish VASEACAD’s communication channels and increase its visibility among researchers, industry stakeholders, policymakers and the wider public.
Partners discussed upcoming dissemination activities, including the preparation of the first project newsletter, future stakeholder engagement events and continued participation in scientific conferences and outreach initiatives. These activities will support the sharing of project results and encourage dialogue with the communities that can benefit from VASEACAD’s research.
Looking ahead
The first coordination meeting confirmed that VASEACAD is making steady progress across its scientific, technical and communication activities. While some technical and logistical challenges remain, the consortium agreed on a series of actions that will guide the project over the coming months, including the optimisation of laboratory protocols, preparation for pilot-scale demonstrations, establishment of the Advisory Board and continued stakeholder engagement.
By bringing together expertise from research organisations, universities, SMEs and industry, VASEACAD continues to develop practical solutions that support the sustainable use of seafood side streams and contribute to Europe’s transition towards a circular blue bioeconomy.
About VASEACAD
VASEACAD (Valorising Seafood Side Streams, Residues, Unwanted Catches and Discards for the Production of Bioactive Protein Hydrolysates and High Added-Value Biomolecules) is a three-year research and innovation project funded by the Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership (SBEP) and co-funded by the European Commission together with the national funding agencies of the participating countries. The project brings together ten organisations from seven European countries to develop sustainable solutions that transform seafood processing side streams into valuable ingredients for food, feed and health applications, supporting Europe’s transition towards a circular and sustainable blue bioeconomy.