European researchers and industry representatives from 34 countries together with representatives from the Network for European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) comprise a European action network to promote research in carotenoids.

Its mission is to enable break-through scientific and technological developments leading to new concepts and products and thereby contribute to strengthening Europe’s research and innovation capacities. It allows researchers, engineers and scholars to jointly develop their own ideas and take new initiatives across all fields of science and technology, while promoting multi- and interdisciplinary approaches.

Carotenoids are versatile and can be used as natural pigments, antioxidants, sources of vitamin A and as functional ingredients. Of the over 750 carotenoids, only ten have been studied in depth, so there it is potential for positive outcomes at different levels.

The EUROCAROTEN network focuses on the study of new sources of carotenoids, less studied carotenoids, and on how the beneficial effect of carotenoids can be exploited for promoting health and increasing the competitiveness of the European agro-food industry products.

Research on carotenoids is challenging as they are very difficult to work with. Addressing the lack of dialogue between largely scattered groups resulting in wasted resources that hinder progress, the EUROCAROTEN network will bring together European bodies for promotion, collaborative use of infrastructure, synergistic interactions and sharing, aimed at the production, application and communication of knowledge which will build research and innovation capacity in Europe.

Important approaches are created that lead to applications such as new technologies and/or high-quality food, and creation of nutritional recommendations that promote health. The EUROCAROTEN network promotes and improves health, and contributes to reducing health-related costs of disease.

For more information visit: https://www.eurocaroten.eu/

Project Partners:

https://www.eurocaroten.eu/participants-database

Funding:

COST Action CA15136 - European Network for the Promotion of Research on Carotenoids. European Union, COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) Funding Organisation for Research and Innovation Networks.