MEESO Project: Exploring the Future of Sustainable Marine Resources

The MEESO Project, a groundbreaking EU-H2020 research initiative, has successfully concluded after investigating the potential of mesopelagic organisms from the ocean’s depths. By collaborating with industry partners, the project focused on assessing whether this biomass can be sustainably harnessed for food and feed, contributing to global food security while preserving marine ecosystems. EFFOP, one of 19 project partners, contributed its expertise on fishmeal, one of the key products explored in this ambitious effort.

Key Findings from EFFOP’s Perspective

The MEESO project examined various processing methods, including silage, hydrolysates, and meal production, to evaluate the potential of mesopelagic biomass for both feed and human consumption. Highlights include:

• Processing Innovations: Species such as Mueller’s pearlside and Northern krill were assessed for processing into fishmeal, oil, and hydrolysates. Silage stood out as a promising method for onboard processing due to its simplicity and low energy demands.
• Nutrient-Rich Resources: Species like Benthosema glaciale and Maurolicus muelleri (Mueller’s pearlside) were found to be nutrient-dense, containing high levels of vitamin A1, calcium, EPA, DHA, and essential trace elements like selenium and iodine—making them ideal for food and feed applications.
• Bioactive Potential: Hydrolysates and aquatic fractions from mesopelagic biomass showed promising health benefits, with some extracts potentially helping to prevent conditions such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and inflammation. Several nutraceutical uses were identified through bioactivity screening.
• Environmental and Safety Considerations: While most mesopelagic species exhibited low contaminant levels, some safety concerns were flagged, such as high fluoride content in Northern krill and wax esters in certain species. However, the processed biomass generally complied with food safety regulations.

Future Potential and Sustainability

The MEESO project validated the potential of mesopelagic biomass for aquafeed and nutraceuticals. Moving forward, further research will focus on improving processing methods, particularly enhancing silage production for long-term sustainability. As global demand for marine proteins increases, the insights gained from MEESO will play a vital role in balancing ecological stewardship with the development of new food resources.

For more information on MEESO’s research, partners, and its contributions to sustainable fisheries, visit the project’s website here.