Some parasites affecting animals are also transmissible to man. The quality of aquatic food products such as shellfish must be improved through enhanced production and management methods. Goals include reducing or eliminating microbial contamination and off-flavors. Seasonal variation in nutrient availability and utilization affects composition of animal products. Research is needed on the interaction between feed availability and genetic characteristics which affect body composition with the goal of improving quality of animal products.
Objectives Identify relative nutrient values and quality.
Establish the biochemical and cellular relationship between animal products and human nutrition and health. Understanding this relationship will enhance the nutritive value and quality of animal products. Define mechanisms controlling composition. Determine the genetic, cellular, and physiological basis for controlling the nutrient composition of food animals and products. Improve animal product safety.