We are pleased to announce that our coordinator, Prof. Vasilis Valdramidis (National and Kapodistrian University of Athens) had the opportunity to present our project at the 3rd FunShield4Med Workshop, held from 25-26 April 2024 at Cranfield University.
Prof. Valdramidis shared key insights into EXCEL4MED’s activities and the progress we have made in addressing challenges related to food sustainability, resilience and innovation within the Mediterranean fruit supply chains.
The workshop brought together a highly relevant audience of experts and stakeholders, focusing on the intersection of climate change, food security and mycotoxin management.
About FunShield4Med project
FunShield4Med, an EU-funded twinning project, is designed to enhance the scientific excellence and innovation capacity of our partner ELGO-DIMITRA’s Institute of Technology of Agricultural Products (ITAP).
The project focuses on food safety, specifically targeting mycotoxigenic fungi and the impact of climate change on food security. Key topics explored during the workshop included:
Climate change scenarios and their effect on food security related to mycotoxins.
Principles of molecular ecology, integrating big data tools like RNAseq, metabolomics, and growth and toxin data.
Case studies on managing mycotoxins at the industrial level, and innovative non-destructive detection methods like IR and hyperspectral imaging.
Mycotoxins: a growing concern
Mycotoxins, toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungi, can silently contaminate food supplies, posing long-term health risks.
Despite their colorless, odorless and tasteless nature, chronic exposure can lead to serious health issues, including gastrointestinal disorders and even cancer.
These contaminants are remarkably stable, making them difficult to eliminate through traditional food processing methods.
Given Greece’s strategic position as a gateway for goods entering the EU from regions affected by mycotoxins, FunShield4Med plays a crucial role in bridging the knowledge gap between Greece and other EU countries, strengthening food safety and ensuring that consumers are protected from contaminated imports.
Collaborative efforts for a safer future
The FunShield4Med project is not just about knowledge sharing, it is about real-world impact. As climate change continues to reshape global agricultural practices, the need for effective mycotoxin detection and management is more critical than ever.
EXCEL4MED is proud to contribute to these discussions, as we work together towards a more sustainable, safe and resilient food future!
