Microbiome for terrestrial livestock sustainability and health within a One Health approach (HORIZON-CL6-2027-02-FARM2FORK-03)

Budget: 11.8 EUR million

Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to all the following expected outcomes: 

• the research community, farmers, livestock industry e.g. breeders, service providers, policymakers understand better the role of the microbiome on livestock health and production and the interaction with environment and human health within a One Health approach; 

• researchers' communities and innovators in the livestock sector have access to a platform of tools for data sharing, knowledge exchange, capacity building and standardization in microbiome research and its applications through synergies with other platforms in a One Health context; 

• targeted strategies and guidelines are available to farmers, service providers and livestock industry to contribute to improving livestock health, while reducing antimicrobial use and environmental impact, and securing animal welfare.

Scope: Microbiome research offers transformative potential for livestock management within the One Health (OH) framework, which emphasises the interconnected health of animals, humans, and the environment. In livestock, microbiome innovation can address pressing issues such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and zoonotic disease transmission. However, gaps persist in understanding the role of variability within host-microbiome interactions, in developing sustainable farming practices, and assessing these interventions in real-world farming settings. Advancing microbiome research can enhance animal health and productivity, improve ecosystems, while reducing environmental and climate impacts. By focusing on microbiome-based solutions, the objective is to support sustainable livestock systems that align with OH principles, necessitating cross-disciplinary collaboration to ensure comprehensive health benefits.