Baltic MUPPETS; valorisation of small blue mussels.

Baltic MUPPETS aims to create a new value chain for small mussels in the Baltic Sea region by developing high-value and healthy pet food products. The project will invest in innovative submerged mussel farming, harvesting and processing techniques, contributing to local economic growth and quality employment opportunities. Furthermore, the Baltic MUPPETS project will develop and apply innovative monitoring and modelling techniques to ensure adequate space for mussel cultivation. The analyses undertaken will allow the maximisation of production yields while respecting the carrying capacity of the environment. Besides the socioeconomic benefits, mussel farming will provide various ecosystem services such as nutrient removal. Over the past years, numerous measures have been implemented to decrease the nutrient input to the Baltic Sea. However, nutrient levels remain high due to the internal loading. Mussel farming has proved to be an appropriate sea-based measure for recycling nutrients, improving water quality and increasing biodiversity.