53rd WEFTA Conference, 13th-17th October 2025, Gdańsk, Poland
Sessions
The WEFTA conference comprised six thematic sessions. Descriptions of these sessions can be found below. Please note that these descriptions are not exhaustive and that similar subjects may be covered in different sessions.
Session I. Future & Sustainable Seafood Processing Opportunities
New approaches in seafood processing – new, modified, intelligent, energy-efficient, low-emission or zero-waste technologies, side-streams utilisation for various purposes, storage conditions. Innovations for implementation in processing plants, as well as digitalization of technological processes.
Session II. Future Raw Material Supply: Fisheries and Aquaculture Innovation
Modern models and technologies in fisheries and aquaculture. Sustainable raw material supply under the pressure of climate change, on-boat handling and quality optimisation, environmental constraints, fish welfare, feed influence and rising production costs.
Session III. Next-Gen Seafood as Food: Nutrition, Health, Functionality & Sensory Quality
Nutritional value and quality of fish, shellfish, micro and macroalgae, new ingredients, new products, functional foods and sensory analysis. Diversification of product offerings in response to changing dietary trends.
Session IV. Seafood Safety and Authenticity
Seafood safety in the context of emerging threats and ensuring consumer safety – chemical residues, pharmaceutical residues, parasites, microorganisms and their prevention and mitigation, toxins, microplastics, product authenticity and fraud prevention, traceability.
Session V. Blue Biotechnology and Marine Bioactive Compounds
Utilization of aquatic organisms (fish, aquatic invertebrates, algae) in biotechnology. Bioactive substances, extracts, biomaterials, and their potential in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and dietary supplements.
Session VI. Seafood Market, Consumption and Consumer Behaviour
Consumer preferences, promotion of seafood consumption, purchasing barriers and motivations. Education, trust in seafood products, market transformation, and communication of nutritional and environmental values.
Blue Bio Opportunities for Health and Value
