The Hellenic Agricultural Organization – DIMITRA (ELGO DIMITRA) is the national reference body for agricultural research, education, and support of the primary sector. Within this framework, the Veterinary Research Institute, based in Thessaloniki, has been active since 1997 at the forefront of scientific knowledge concerning animal health and welfare, the safety of food of animal origin, and the sustainable development of livestock farming.

With modern laboratory infrastructure and specialized scientific staff, the Institute focuses on three main pillars:

• Genetic improvement and reproduction of farm animals, aiming to increase efficiency and preserve domestic genetic resources.
• Animal health and welfare, through epidemiological studies, innovative methods of disease prevention and control.
• Technology and hygiene of food of animal origin, with the development of innovative products and applications for the protection of public health.

The Veterinary Research Institute plays an active role in national and European research programs, provides scientific support to the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, and collaborates with universities, research bodies, and professional organizations in Greece and abroad.

Within the framework of the OG BEST RUMIN, the Institute contributes decisively to the development of the new management model for sheep and goat farms, combining scientific research with practice, for the protection of the local Kefalonia breed and the upgrading of production.