Within the FutureFoods Call framework, we are developing a project component investigating the effects of Hurma olives (naturally debittered olives) on gut microbiota composition and metabolic activity. We are particularly interested in partners with expertise in in vitro fermentation models, advanced microbiome analysis (16S rRNA sequencing, metagenomics), metabolomics (SCFA profiling), and host–microbiota interaction studies.

The project aims to explore the functional potential of traditional olive varieties as sustainable future foods, integrating bioaccessibility (INFOGEST digestion model) with gut microbial modulation outcomes. We seek academic or research partners experienced in microbiome data analysis, bioinformatics, or human intervention studies to strengthen the translational dimension of the proposal.

The Olive Research Institute is a public research organization operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of the Republic of Türkiye. The institute conducts applied and strategic research on olives and olive oil, including breeding, cultivation practices, quality assessment, food safety, authenticity, bioactive compounds, and sustainability.

It collaborates with national and international research institutions, supports innovation in the olive sector, and provides scientific and technical expertise to producers and policymakers. The institute also engages in project-based research at national and European levels.