Such research could help processors reduce or eliminate the chance of pathogens contaminating their final products.

The EuroMedCitrusNet project is designed to promote stronger research collaboration between the EU and Mediterranean partner countries from which processers source their citrus supplies.

The project, coordinated by Sociedade Portuguesa de Inovação (SPI), began in October 2006 and will run for two years. The university announced this week it has launched an Internet site from which processors and others could access information.

The website is the focus point for information about the project and a means of establishing and strengthening EU-Mediterranean partner country collaboration in citrus sector research

Project organisers can register in the database as a means of contributing towards the construction of a comprehensive information source on research activity, facilities, training and other relevant information.

Research institutions in Turkey, Greece, France, Spain, Italy, Morocco, Egypt and Tunisia are involved in the project.

"Through this project they will bring together scientists and industrialists to create a sustainable Mediterranean network for the citrus sector to support research relevant to safe and high quality cross-border supply chains," the Sociedade Portuguesa de Inovação said this week.

The project is funded through the European Commission's 6th Framework Programme.