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The leader of the Aquatic Organism Reproductive Biotechnology Team received technical assistance for his project thanks to a call for proposals announced by the European Climate, Environment and Infrastructure Executive Agency (CINEA). As part of this prestigious programme, in July Dr. Radosław Kowalski hosted at the Institute’s headquarters experts whose support will contribute to strengthening efforts to achieve the EU Mission: Restore our Ocean and Waters.

Technical assistance (Cycle 2 – Technical Assistance to support communities of actors to achieve the EU Mission: Restore our Ocean and Waters objectives) aims to support selected applicants in developing, facilitating, and strengthening actions that contribute to one or more of the objectives of the EU Mission: Restore our Ocean and Waters. The program includes technical assistance and feasibility studies.

“The technical assistance is an exclusive, impact-driven, coaching programme for selected signatories of the EU Mission Ocean and Waters Charter, which consists of expert support to analyse and improve each project. The technical assistance shall be tailored to each project’s maturity and objectives and support the achievement of the selected targets of the Mission.” – as we read in the Call for Expression of Interest.

As part of the assistance provided, in July this year, Dr. Radosław Kowalski hosted two experts: Tim Huntington, Poseidon Director, a sustainable aquaculture expert, and Małgorzata Smolak, Technopolis, a lawyer specializing in environmental and energy law. The assistance provided so far in the development of a project aimed at protecting the aquatic ecosystem will beconcluded with the preparation of a feasibility study.

Following the Call: “The feasibility studies shall provide an assessment of the overall viability of projects, defining risks, opportunities, and probability of success and analysing whether the planned projects are legally, technically, financially, economically, operationally, environmentally, and commercially justifiable and feasible. The studies shall also provide recommendations on how to improve the feasibility of selected actions.”

IN RESPONSE TO THE DEGRADATION OF AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS

The evaluated project focuses on the protection and monitoring of salmonid biodiversity in Central and Eastern Europe – from the Baltic Sea basin to the Adriatic Sea – with particular emphasis on the endangered species of Danube salmon (Hucho hucho). This species, like other salmonids (e.g., Atlantic salmon, sea trout, and brown trout), is highly sensitive to the effects of climate change and habitat degradation, leading to its withdrawal from natural river environments.

The project involves international cooperation between research centers, water management institutions, non-governmental organizations, and representatives of local communities from various countries in the region.

The planned actions include:

• developing and implementing new methods for monitoring the presence and condition of salmonid populations, including the use of eDNA analysis;
• developing cross-border mechanisms for the protection and renaturation of river habitats;
• initiating active conservation programs, such as the restoration of endangered populations, the creation of “living gene banks,” and the improvement of watershed management practices;
• creating a platform for the exchange of knowledge and good practices, which will enable more effective coordination of activities on a transnational scale.

The aim of the project is not only to counteract the decline in biodiversity, but also to contribute to the restoration of functional, climate-resilient river ecosystems, in line with the EU Biodiversity Strategy and the European Green Deal.

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In recent years, the quality and safety of food has become a hot topic of debate, particularly in the context of importing products from outside the European Union. Farmers and politicians have expressed concerns about the health quality of imported food products. What solutions can protect us from potential dangers? What challenges do consumers face in the context of growing changes in the global food market?

Author: Dr. Adam Jurgoński, Head of the Biological Function of Food Team

Food surveillance

The quality and safety of food in Poland is monitored by a number of government administrative bodies, including the State Sanitary Inspectorate, the Veterinary Inspectorate and the Agricultural and Food Quality Inspection. It is mainly they who supervise both domestic and imported food products, including those from outside the European Union. At EU level, meanwhile, there is the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which analyses available scientific data and assesses food-related risks, including the presence of foreign chemicals. The European Union also has the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF), which allows information to be rapidly communicated and action to be taken to withdraw products that may pose a health risk from the EU market.

With an organised system of supervision and control, consumers can count on food safety at an appropriate level. However, the subject of food imports from outside the EU, especially in the context of trade agreements such as EU-Mercosur, can raise concerns in some quarters about differences in production methods and, consequently, in the quality of imported foodstuffs.

Food accessibility – local and global situation

The problem of ensuring adequate food supply around the world is not so clear-cut. Indeed, in Europe and North America, there is generally an excess of food, which leads to health problems related to obesity and diet-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Excess food also results in food waste – a growing social problem that is being tackled through a variety of initiatives, including information campaigns, optimising supply chains or creating so-called food banks. However, in regions of the world affected by conflict or poverty, such as some countries in sub-Saharan Africa, food scarcity and even periodic famines are still a real problem.

New sources of protein – insects and artificial meat on the plate?

Contemporary trends related to environmental protection and changing consumer preferences are leading to a search for alternative sources of protein. Although controversial, the topic of using insects in food production is becoming increasingly popular in this context. It has been postulated that insects can provide a valuable alternative to traditional protein sources.

However, it is not just about meeting protein requirements. This phenomenon must also be seen in the context of a changing approach to livestock farming, which, as a result of its intensification, is perceived by a growing number of people as controversial. Among other reasons, this is why some people opt for diets based on plant-based foods, which, if well balanced, can be nutritionally sufficient for adults who are not over-exercising. However, in extreme cases, they can unfortunately lead to severe malnutrition, especially in children. This raises the issue of the incomplete value of plant-based protein and alternative sources of protein, such as artificial meat, the pilot production of which is already underway in some countries.

The future of food – the right to information and choice

Consumers have the right to reliable information and a free choice of food products on the market. Whether we are talking about insects, artificial meat or imported foods, the final decision as to which is better should therefore rest with the well-informed and educated consumer. There are many indications that interest in insects as a source of protein will not be widespread due to their exoticism as a food ingredient in our cultural circle. Instead, price competitiveness and taste will play a very important role when accepting imported or artificially produced products.

The issue of food, both domestic and imported, is a constant topic of discussion. Regardless of accepted trends, it is important to provide adequate education and information to enable informed consumer choices. For children, on the other hand, it is particularly important to have a well-balanced diet, including wholesome animal protein, appropriate to their age and necessary for proper growth and development.

The assessment of the food situation indicates that, in the face of new challenges, consumers should be provided with access to reliable information on the origin, quality, as well as nutritional value and health properties of food products. In this way, it is hoped that the food market will be shaped according to consumers’ preferences and health needs.

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A researcher’s publications in a given field and the number of citations are factors that were taken into account when compiling the 4th edition of the prestigious international Research.com ranking. Researchers from our Institute were recognized in two of the twenty fields included in the ranking: Prof. Ryszard Amarowicz in chemistry and Prof. Andrzej Ciereszko in biology and biochemistry.

The ranking of Research.com is based on the D-index (discipline-specific H-index), which takes into account a researcher’s publication output in a given field and the number of citations. The data comes from OpenAlex and CrossRef. According to the creators of the ranking, their goal is to inspire scientists, companies, and politicians from around the world to explore the research conducted by leading experts and to provide the entire scientific community with the opportunity to discover who the leading experts are in specific fields of research, in different countries, and even within individual research institutions.

Chemistry: Prof. Ryszard Amarowicz, leader of the Chemical and Physical Properties of Food Team at the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn:

• 2nd position in the national ranking,

3013th position in the global ranking,
D-Index: 78,
Citations: 18,811,
Publications: 370.

Biology and biochemistry: Prof. Andrzej Ciereszko, corresponding member of the Polish Academy of Sciences, leader of the Gamete Biology Team at the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn:

• 27th position in the national ranking,

17,364th position in the global ranking,
D-Index: 45,
Citations: 7,549,
Publications: 260.

Congratulations!

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The Voivode of Warmia-Masuria honoured this year’s Fisherman’s Day celebrations with the Rafał Chwaluczyk Award, a distinction for scientists supporting the development of fisheries and the protection of the aquatic environment in the region. The title of ‘Scientist of the Year’ was awarded to Dr. Daniel Żarski, whose scientific and practical work has for years focused on innovative solutions in ichthyology and aquaculture.

As stated in the official announcement by the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship Office in Olsztyn: Warmia and Masuria, a region with a unique water heritage, could not function without the people who protect its riches. Fisherman’s Day is an opportunity to express gratitude to fishermen, scientists, educators, wardens and all those involved in the protection and development of the fishing industry.

– I am extremely pleased to present you with the Rafał Chwaluczyk Award, also because your first research (on burbot reproduction, as part of Dr. Żarski’s master thesis – Ed.) was conducted in collaboration with the patron of this award. You are an outstanding scientist, gifted not only with great talent and scientific intuition, but also with diligence, humility, caution in formulating conclusions and respect for the achievements of other scientists. All this together makes your achievements outstanding and directly translates into innovation in Polish aquaculture, especially in the field of fish reproduction, hatchery and larviculture, said Radosław Król, Voivode of Warmia-Masuria, in his laudation.

The development of aquaculture is not only a tradition and continuation of local heritage, but also a solid investment in the future – healthy food, resource security and new technologies. Scientific work in this area provides not only knowledge, but also specific tools that help fishing farms operate effectively and responsibly.

– It is a great honour. We work with passion, heart and commitment, combining theory with practice, which translates into a real impact on the development of this sector of the economy. Today’s times present us with major challenges, including climate, environmental and food issues. Aquaculture, if conducted wisely, can be the answer to many of them – explains Dr. Daniel Żarski, leader of our Institute’s Reproduction and Development in Fish Team. The Rafał Chwaluczyk Award aims to highlight the role of scientists who not only describe and explain the world, but also actively change it – for the benefit of the environment, the economy and future generations.

Congratulations!

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It is with deep sadness that we received the news that on June 24, 2025, our coworker, colleague and friend, Anita Ostaszyk, M.Sc. Eng., passed away.

Anita had been associated with the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn for 34 years, where she was employed while still a fifth-year student at the University of Agriculture and Technology in Olsztyn. After graduation, she continued her work at the Department of Physical Properties of Food, then at the Department of Food Chemistry, and the Department of Sensory Analysis of Food, currently operating as the Sensory Laboratory.

The premature passing of Anita Ostaszyk is a profound and painful loss for our community. We bid farewell to a modest, warm, and cordial person with great personal culture, helpful and always willing to offer advice. She loved nature and long walks with her dogs with all her heart, and her home was always full of pets. Literature and handicrafts were also her great passions. We will remember her kindness and warm smile, which she bestowed on everyone around her. She will remain a symbol of patience and genuine concern for others.

The funeral ceremony will begin on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. with a Holy Mass at the Church at 29 Morska Str. in Olsztyn, after which the mourners will proceed to the municipal cemetery at Poprzeczna Str. in Olsztyn.

The Management and Colleagues
of the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn

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The groundbreaking nature of the research and its significant contribution to advancing knowledge about the extra-gonadal role of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a hormone that plays a significant role in regulating reproductive functions – the Scientific Award of the Society for Reproductive Biology for the best scientific paper published in 2024 was awarded to Ewelina Palak, MSc, from the Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction Team at our Institute.

As we read further in the justification of the TBR Executive Board: The results obtained challenge the existing beliefs about the involvement of FSH-FSHR signaling in the regulation of uterine muscle contractility during pregnancy, as well as in the functioning of adipose tissue. These findings may be of significant importance in the future design of effective hormonal therapies using FSH.

The award-winning paper, entitled „Revisiting the follicle-stimulation hormone receptor expression and function in human myometrium and adipose tissue” was published last December in the prestigious journal Molecular Medicine (Mol Med. 2024 Dec 4;30(1):241).

– Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone that plays a key role in sexual development and the regulation of reproductive functions in both women and men. In women, FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of Graafian follicles in the ovaries, and its concentration is an important indicator in the diagnosis of infertility, menstrual disorders, assessment of ovarian reserve and in the diagnosis of menopause. Both too low and too high FSH concentrations may indicate gonadal dysfunction. The action of FSH is possible thanks to the presence of its receptor (FSHR), whose proper functioning is crucial for the action of FSH in reproductive biology – explains Ewelina Palak, MSc.

Laureate is a biotechnologist, a graduate of the Warsaw University of Technology. She works in the Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction Team at our Institute. Her research interests focus on the functional role of the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor and the effect of FSH on uterine muscle and adipose tissue. She conducts research on the molecular mechanisms occurring in the female reproductive system, with particular emphasis on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

SOCIETY FOR REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY (TOWARZYSTWO BIOLOGII ROZRODU – TBR)

TBR was established in 1998. Currently, it has eight branches (Białystok, Lublin, Poznań, Szczecin, Kraków, Olsztyn, Wrocław, and Warsaw). The aim of the Society is to initiate activities leading to the development of sciences related to human and animal reproductive biology.

More information on the TBR website (available in Polish): tbr.pan.olsztyn.pl.

Congratulations!

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Joint activities for the benefit and in the interest of doctoral students in Olsztyn – this is the idea behind the Olsztyn Doctoral Students’ Agreement, which was formally signed during the 2nd Open Meeting of the Board of the National Representation of Doctoral Students (KRD). In addition to legal and organizational issues related to doctoral studies, the meeting also addressed an equally important topic – the mental health of doctoral students and the scientific community.

At the end of June, the Second Open Meeting of the Management Board (OPZ) of the National Representation of Doctoral Students (KRD) ) – the Polish representative body for doctoral students – was held in Olsztyn. (KRD took place. The event was organized by the Doctoral Student Council of the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, and co-organized by the Doctoral Student Council of the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn. Important point of the meeting was the ceremonial signing of the Olsztyn Doctoral Students’ Agreement, which expressed the will to undertake joint actions for the benefit of PhD students in the region.

Open Management Board meetings are held regularly and summarize the activities of the KRD authorities to date. The key issues addressed by the current term of the Management Board include: the status of doctoral students from the moment they submit their dissertation up to its defense, the conditions for suspension of studies at a doctoral school, the legal basis for the institution of the Doctoral Student Ombudsman, and the representation of doctoral students in the Science Evaluation Committee. The event is a good opportunity to broaden horizons, including organizational ones, exchange experiences, and share good academic practices. Young scientists also have the opportunity to develop soft skills during training sessions.

During the meeting, doctoral students could participate in one of three training paths:

1. How to cope with stress?

2. Strong scientist – leadership skills.

3. Intercultural academic etiquette – how to build relationships in an international environment? (conducted in English, also available to international doctoral students from organizational units).

OLSZTYN DOCTORAL STUDENTS’ AGREEMENT

As part of the KRD meeting, the Olsztyn Doctoral Students’ Agreement (OPD) was formally signed. The OPD letter of intention was signed by Magda Słyszewska, MSc, Chair of the Doctoral Student Council of the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, and Aleksandra Cichowska-Likszo, MSc, Chair of the Doctoral Student Council of the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn.

– The agreement is a result of joint work, discussions, and trust between two doctoral student councils. I believe that this step opens up new opportunities for us – not only in terms of organization, but also socially and scientifically. We hope that it will allow us to represent our interests more effectively, support initiatives, and create a space where every doctoral student in Olsztyn will feel part of a larger community – sums up Magda Słyszewska.

FOCUS ON THE WELL-BEING OF PhD STUDENTS

The grand opening of the OPZ was capped off with a panel discussion devoted to the mental health of doctoral students and the entire academic and scientific community. The discussion was attended by: Prof. Aneta Andronowska, Director of the Interdisciplinary Doctoral School of Agricultural Sciences, Prof. Paweł Brzuzan, Director of the Doctoral School at the University of Warmia and Mazury, Prof. Jan Szmidt, Warsaw University of Technology, Prof. Andrzej Szeptycki, Undersecretary of State at the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Monika Wilanowska, MA, second deputy Ombudsman for Doctoral Students.

The topic of mental health and the challenges faced by the scientific community in this area is increasingly being discussed in public debate. In March, a report prepared by SWPS on behalf of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education was published. The report shows, among other things, that people in the early stages of their academic careers are particularly vulnerable to mental health deterioration, hence the need for targeted measures to identify difficulties, build mental resilience among doctoral students, and create systemic preventive solutions and psychological support.

– Supporting initiatives focused on mental health is an important step and should include both doctoral students and academic teaching staff – emphasizes Prof. Andronowska.

The event was held under the honorary patronage of Prof. Monika M. Kaczmarek, Director of the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Prof. Jerzy A. Przyborowski, Rector of the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Robert Szewczyk, Mayor of Olsztyn, and Andrzej Abako, Starost of Olsztyn.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF DOCTORAL STUDENTS

The KRD was established out of the need to create an official voice for doctoral students that would be included in academic discourse. As stated on the website of the doctoral community representatives, the KRD has the right to express opinions and submit proposals on matters concerning all doctoral students, including issuing opinions on normative acts concerning doctoral students. For more information visit: krd.edu.pl.

GALLERY

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It is a rich source of nutrients, its production contributes to sustainable development and environmental protection, and it is not new at all. Edible insect oil – because that is what we are talking about – is an excellent alternative to traditional oils – emphasizes Dr. Bartosz Fotschki from the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn.

– Insect oil is rich in essential fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, and bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties. As a result, this oil can be considered a potentially valuable addition to the human diet, which is not only a sustainable alternative to traditional vegetable and fish oils, but also offers unique health benefits due to its composition, according to a scientist from the Food Biological Functions Team.

This oil attracts attention not only because of its nutritional benefits, but also because it supports sustainable development. Insect farming requires significantly less land, water, and feed compared to traditional livestock farming. In addition to environmental benefits, this type of farming also results in significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, making it a more sustainable alternative in the pursuit of food security.

Interestingly, insects have been consumed by humans since prehistoric times. – Currently, interest in this product in Western cultures is relatively new and is part of a broader interest in entomophagy (i.e., eating insects), which is gaining popularity as a solution to global food security challenges – says Dr. Bartosz Fotschki.

The global distribution of edible insects is extensive, with Asia, North America, and Africa being the leading regions in terms of species diversity and consumption. Insect oil is obtained from edible insects such as the house cricket (Acheta domesticus), mealworm larvae (Tenebrio molitor), and black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens).

These species are known for their high protein and lipid content, making them ideal for oil extraction. The amount of oil obtained from insects largely depends on the species and the extraction method. For example, it takes about 4 to 5 kg of dried black soldier fly larvae to produce 1 kg of oil.

– Despite their nutritional benefits, consumer acceptance remains a challenge. This is mainly due to cultural perceptions, which is why insect oils are often incorporated into food products in unrecognizable forms, such as blends with vegetable oils or as ingredients in processed foods such as cookies and snacks – the scientist emphasizes.

Currently, EU regulations allow food to be produced from three species of insects: beetles, locusts, and mealworms. In January 2023, the European Union expanded the list of approved products, allowing the marketing of house cricket powder on the EU market. This new ingredient can be added to various food products, such as bread, pizza, other baked goods and ready meals.

Due to its composition and ease of insect breeding, oil from Hermetia illucens (black soldier fly) larvae has attracted considerable attention from scientists around the world in recent years. Such research is also being conducted at our Institute.

These are the first nutritional studies at the Institute to use insect oil. Their main objective is to determine the effect of the oil on the functioning of the digestive tract and liver. The results of the studies will provide new information on the effect of insect oil on the activity of the digestive tract microbiota and the mechanisms regulating lipid metabolism in the liver.

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