Tehran - Iran has proposed 19 national projects to advance seafood processing technologies, reduce waste, develop health-oriented products and expand exports, the head of the National Aquatic Products Processing Research Center has announced.

 

Mohammad Sayyad Boorani said the initiatives align with the country's development plans and marine-oriented economy policies, focusing on smart packaging, longer shelf life and the full utilization of aquatic resources.

 

“Research priorities include developing processing technologies for small fish such as kilka and sardines, as well as producing agar and alginate from macroalgae and microalgae for the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries.”

 

The center has implemented more than 60 research projects and developed 21 sets of technical know-how, Boorani said. “Achievements include an expanded snack made from silver carp processing by-products, value-added products from sea bass, concentrated oil from kilka and sardines, and collagen production from seafood waste.”

 

The center is also working to return processing by-products to the production cycle, reduce waste and create higher-value products. Other priorities include ready-to-eat seafood, fish burgers and nuggets, omega-3 supplements, marine collagen and gelatin, and pharmaceutical and cosmetic ingredients, he added.

 

Citing Iran Fisheries Organization figures, Boorani said Iran produces around 1.4 million to 1.5 million tons of aquatic products annually, with aquaculture accounting for 55% and capture fisheries for the remaining 45%.