Work Packages
Five Work Packages shaping the AlFunFeed mission.
Each Work Package (WP) focuses on a specific component of the project — from developing fungal protein to communicating its impact. Together they build a coherent pathway from marine waste to sustainable aquafeed.
WP1 – SCP Development, Characterisation and LCA
Develop and optimise fungal single-cell protein from macroalgal residues.
WP1 focuses on the production and optimisation of fungal SCP using marine macroalgal by-products as substrate.
The tasks include strain selection, fermentation trials, nutrient profiling, and protein digestibility analysis.
The environmental and economic sustainability of the SCP process is assessed through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and cost modelling, providing data-driven insights for downstream feed formulation.
Partners:
- ODS Protein (leader, PM 42.5)
- UVIGO (PM 5.6)
WP2 – Feed Formulation and Validation Trials
Integrate SCP into balanced aquafeeds and test performance.
WP2 formulates SCP-based diets for European seabass, replacing conventional protein sources at different inclusion levels.
Laboratory and pilot-scale feeding trials evaluate growth performance, feed efficiency, and product quality.
The WP ensures that SCP inclusion supports fish health while maintaining feed palatability and nutritional value.
Partners:
- CIIMAR (leader, PM 12)
- UVIGO (PM 6)
WP3 – Evaluation of Digestive, Immune and Welfare Responses
Assess biological and welfare effects of SCP-based feeds.
WP3 investigates the physiological responses of fish fed with SCP-containing diets.
Studies include analysis of gut histology, enzyme activity, immune biomarkers, and gut microbiota composition.
Special attention is given to animal welfare indicators, ensuring that SCP-based formulations meet high standards of ethical and biological performance.
Partners:
- UVIGO (leader, PM 25)
- CIIMAR (PM 19)
- UTH (PM 17)
- UNIVPM (PM 22)
WP4 – Management, Ethics and Risk Assessment
Ensure efficient coordination, compliance, and ethical integrity.
WP4 oversees project management, financial control, and ethical compliance.
It establishes reporting workflows, risk management procedures, and internal communication protocols.
This WP ensures that all research activities respect EU ethical standards and that project milestones are achieved on time and within scope.
Partners:
- UVIGO (leader, PM14)
- UNIVPM
- UTH
- ODS Protein
- CIIMAR
- + self-funded Partners
WP5 – Communication, Dissemination and Exploitation
Communicate results and maximise project impact.
WP5 delivers the communication, dissemination, and exploitation strategy of AlFunFeed.
Activities include brand identity creation, website and social media management, scientific dissemination, stakeholder engagement, and exploitation planning.
The WP ensures that the project’s outcomes reach academic, industrial, and policy audiences, fostering awareness and future adoption.
Partners:
- UNIVPM (leader, PM 9.7)
- + self-funded Partners
