Production and product improvement / Added value
Consumer driven product development is relatively new in seafood sector. Contrary to technology push approach, IMARES applies methodologies to use consumer demands (often irrational, not objectively true emotions and values) and translate these in product concepts. These concepts are further developed by interdisciplinary teams of technologists, chefs, marketers and consumer scientists.
The methodology for new product development implies regular ‘consumer checks’ if we are on the right track.
Besides this consumer driven product development, IMARES also uses new technologies to produce products off added value. For example Selenium enriched catfish: an application of the consumer demand to eat healthier. Another example: to implement animal friendlier slaughter techniques and produce fish that at the same time will have a longer shelf life.