A Strong Start to 2026: NNEdPro Bringing Evidence-Based Nutrition to Global Media

Authors: Gerald Cheruiyot & Jackson Mudengeya 

Reviewed by: Sumantra (Shumone) Ray and Sarah Anderson

This month, NNEdPro’s commitment to advancing evidence-based nutrition reached a wide international audience through a series of high-profile broadcast engagements. 

Professor Sumantra Ray (Executive Director, NNEdPro) represented the Institute across global media platforms, translating complex nutrition science into accessible, evidence-informed insights for healthcare professionals, policymakers and the wider public. 

From frontline workforce wellbeing and climate-related threats to food quality and emerging food technologies, these interviews underline NNEdPro’s role as a trusted global authority at the intersection of nutrition science, public health and policy. 

Supporting the Frontline: Nutrition for Extended Clinical Shifts (The BMJ) 

In a featured discussion with The BMJ, Professor Ray explored the substantial physical and cognitive demands placed on healthcare professionals during extended shifts. The conversation highlighted that nutrition is a vital professional tool that directly influences focus, endurance, and patient safety. 

Key points included: 

• The biological challenge: Working 13 consecutive hours disrupts metabolic and circadian rhythms, causing hunger signals to fluctuate and slowing metabolism. 

• The sugar rollercoaster: Experts warned against relying on sugary snacks as a quick fix. While they provide a temporary energy boost, this is often followed by a crash, leaving staff more fatigued. 

• Strategic pre-shift fuelling: The primary advice is to “fuel before the fight.” Consuming a substantial, balanced meal before a shift establishes a foundation of sustained energy. 

• The balanced plate: Ideal meals include wholegrains, lean protein and vegetables, such as brown rice stir-fries, lentil curries, or hearty vegetable soups. 

• Breakfast options: For early shifts, nutrient-dense choices such as overnight oats with chia seeds, peanut butter and Greek yoghurt, or a vegetable-rich frittata were recommended. 

Climate Change and the Hidden Erosion of Food Quality (TRT World)

On TRT World, Professor Ray discussed the less visible yet profound impact of climate change on global nutrition security, alongside multidisciplinary experts from Columbia University and the University of Bonn.

The discussion examined the impact of rising CO₂ levels on the nutrient quality of crops and the implications for population health and global food security. It focused on how environmental changes are reducing the nutrient content of commonly consumed foods, with significant implications for population health. 

Key insights from the discussion included: 

• Rising CO₂ as a nutrient diluter: Elevated CO₂ increases sugars and starches while reducing essential vitamins, minerals and protein in staple crops such as rice, wheat and pulses. These nutrients are vital for immune function and cognitive development. 

• Hidden hunger: Populations may meet caloric requirements yet remain malnourished, increasing risks of stunting, micronutrient deficiencies and metabolic disease globally. 

• Food safety risks: Elevated CO₂ may also increase the uptake of heavy metals, such as lead, in certain crops, introducing additional, under-recognised hazards. 

• Disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities: Underserved populations that rely heavily on staple crops are likely to be most affected, further widening global nutrition and health inequities. 

• Urgent need for climate-sensitive research: While evidence remains limited, emerging longitudinal studies are sufficient to warrant action-oriented research to inform policy, professional practice and public understanding. 

  
  

  

Precision Breeding, Innovation and Public Confidence (Times Radio) 

As we look toward technological solutions for these global nutrient gaps, the conversation turns toward innovation and consumer safety. Appearing on the Times Radio Breakfast Show with Alexis Conran, Professor Ray provided expert commentary regarding UK legislation on gene-edited foods. 

NNEdPro provided scientific commentary on the UK’s legislation regarding gene-edited foods. The discussion focused on balancing innovation with scientific rigour, transparency, and public confidence. 

Key highlights from the discussion included:  

• Defining gene editing: Gene editing involves precise modifications to an organism’s own DNA, in contrast to traditional genetic modification, which often introduces foreign DNA. 

• The need for long-term trials: While precision breeding shows promise for improving nutrient profiles, robust interventional and observational human studies are needed to monitor long-term effects on food composition and health. 

• Transparency and engagement: Successful adoption of these technologies relies on rigorous scientific evaluation, open communication, and meaningful public engagement. 

• Assessing potential risks: The conversation highlighted the importance of evaluating long-term effects on the human gut microbiome and metabolic health. 

• Evidence-based policy: All future food policy decisions must be grounded in high-quality, evidence-based nutrition science to safeguard public and global health. 

Strengthening Nutrition Through Evidence and Engagement 

These media engagements demonstrate the interconnected challenges shaping global nutrition, from workforce wellbeing and environmental change to technological innovation in food systems. At NNEdPro, our work is guided by a clear commitment to high-quality, evidence-based nutrition science, ensuring that research informs practice, policy and public understanding, supporting healthier and more resilient food systems worldwide.