A new research network called Feed for Health has been established in Europe as a European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) initiative to develop an integrated and collaborative network of research groups. The initiative will last five years.
The groups will focus on the roles of feed and animal nutrition in improving animal health and also the quality, safety and wholesomeness of human foods of animal origin.
One of the four work groups will be led by Professor Ian Givens of the University of Reading in the UK; he is the joint leader of the university's research area dealing with Food Chain and Health.
Feed for Health's major benefit will be in identifying research needs at a time when the funding from governments and industry for research into feedstuffs and farm animal nutrition is reducing, according to a statement from the university.
The network will allow dissemination of information and experience at national and regional levels. It will also create a training and exchange program for postgraduate students, postdoctoral fellows and young researchers focused on feed and both animal and human health.
