Project Aim
BIOFRAME is a European project focused on improving biosecurity in non-intensive animal farming systems. While these systems support animal welfare and environmental sustainability, they are often more vulnerable to disease due to diverse management practices and limited tailored guidance.
BIOFRAME addresses this gap by co-developing a flexible biosecurity framework with farmers, veterinarians, policymakers, and consumers. The framework will adapt to each farm’s specific context, providing practical guidance and economic insights to support informed decision-making.
Through pilot studies, economic analysis, and a review of existing legislation, BIOFRAME aims to strengthen animal health and welfare, reduce disease risks, and support the long-term sustainability of non-intensive farming systems, while informing future biosecurity policy across Europe.
Work will happen over 36 months with the project having commenced in December 2025 and running until December 2028.
- Identify farmer & veterinarian needs related to biosecurity implementation.
- Analyse consumer perceptions and willingness to pay for safer products.
- Review and assess existing EU and national legislation for suitability.
- Conduct pilot studies on farms to test, refine, and validate the framework.
- Build an open-source bioeconomic model to assess costs & benefits.
- Produce policy briefs and strengthen dialogue between farmers and decision makers.
BIOFRAMEWill:
Work Packages Overview
WP1 – Participatory Framework Development
Led by COFAC (Portugal) & co-led by University of Nottingham- Stakeholder focus groups & interviews (farmers, vets)
- Consumer perceptions survey
- Co-creation of the first draft of the BIOFRAME framework
WP2 – Legislative & Policy Recommendations
Led by IZSVe (Italy) and co-led by INRAE/ENVT (France)
- Reviews EU & national biosecurity legislation
- Consults policymakers, inspectors, farmers & vets
- Produces evidence-based policy recommendations
WP3 – Pilot Studies
Led by UAB (Spain) and co-led by INRAE/ENVT (France)
- Pilot implementation on pig, poultry & ruminant farms
- Measures real-world applicability, welfare impact, and farmer feedback
- Refines framework through practical testing
WP4 – Economic Analysis
Led by LUKE (Finland)
- Creates economic data protocol
- Builds an open-source bioeconomic model
- Evaluates financial feasibility of biosecurity measures
WP5 – Dissemination & Knowledge Exchange
Led by Innovation for Agriculture (UK)
- Communication & engagement strategy
- Training events, workshops, newsletters
- Policy briefs & farmer-focused materials
WP6 – Project Management
Led by Ghent University (Belgium)
- Coordination across the consortium
- Reporting, risk management, administration
- Consortium meetings and oversight