Goal

Bioforsk will:

• Contribute to value-added production in Norwegian agriculture through its activities within environmental-friendly food production, food safety and food quality
• Be an attractive and reliable research partner, internationally as well as at national level
• Further develop and maintain an adequate network of international researchers and research institutes to ensure being continuously part of ‘state-of-the art' research activities
• To the extent possible, ensure participation in large international ‘food quality and safety' related research projects

Strategy

Norwegian nature and climate provide a unique frame for food production, due to the special light and temperature conditions, and low intensity agricultural land use. Small-scale family based farm structure provide excellent opportunities for value-added food production and multifunctional farming.
Food quality and safety is one of the main focus areas within Bioforsk. To meet the demands of the consumers, retailers, producers and authorities in a changing global and local context we are implementing the following strategies

• 1. Detect and respond to major trends and changes within the food sector
• 2. Contribute to competitive advantages for agricultural food production
• 3. Be internationally recognised with regard to the relationship between production system, environmental impact and food quality
• 4. Contribute to value-added production of food
• 5. Clarify effects of climate change on food production, quality and safety
• 6. Focus on communication and dissemination of knowledge to all parties, nationally and internationally

Status

Bioforsk has acquired a broad range of competences within agronomy and raw materials for most crops and horticultural products, including feed.  We have strong research groups and long-term activities in plant health and plant protection, integrated pest management, crop science, soil science, organic farming, arctic farming and food production and food production maintain cultural landscapes and extensive international collaboration. A large proportion of Bioforsk's projects fall within this category.