Libya, EU May Use Genomics Technology to Study Goat, Camel Milk

NEW YORK, Sept. 6 (GenomeWeb News) - Libyamay soon be working with European researchers to study whether genomics technology can clear the way for widespread use of camel or goat milk for human consumption, according to a news report.

European Union research commissioner Philippe Busquin recently "highlighted the potential benefits" of a scientific partnership between the EU and Libya, including possible research into camel milk, the online news service just-food.com said in a report today.

Busquin said this collaboration may go into effect if Libya, which the West for decades claimed has ties to terrorist groups, joins the so-called Barcelonaprocess for cooperation between the EU and the Mediterranean countries.

Research projects "could cover" genomics and veterinary research on Libyan goats and camels, just-foods.com reported. Scientists believe camel's milk has "potential economic and health benefits" because it has relatively low allergic characteristics compared with cows' milk.

Additional details of likely collaborations were not disclosed.

Click here to read more about the Barcelonaprocess for cooperation between the EU and the Mediterranean countries.