Anna Edesia - July Newsletter
- Sarah Anderson
- Jul 9
- 10 min read
Updated: Jul 15
Author: Sarah Anderson
Reviewers: Shumone Ray
As we reach the midpoint of 2025, we are proud to reflect on a vibrant second quarter within the global ecosystem of the NNEdPro Global Institute and all its nine partner initiatives. The past few months have witnessed strategic organisational developments, increasing global engagement, and continued momentum towards our apex event for this calendar year, the 11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health in December 2025.
Over the first half of 2025, we have implemented pledges made in our 10th International Summit (December 2024) by strengthening our commitment to advancing nutrition science in a manner that is inclusive, accessible, and responsive to global challenges through cross-sector partnerships and impactful knowledge exchange.
None of this would be possible without the ongoing support of our members, collaborators, and funders. With your help, we continue to bridge the gap between evidence and action across disciplines and geographies.
Read on for key highlights from April to June and discover what’s on the horizon, including how you can be part of our mission and vision as we prepare for an inspiring second half of our 17th year.
Birthday Message From the Chair
As I turned 50 on 3rd July, I have been reflecting on the 25 years since I began my journey since I qualified dually as both a medical doctor and public health nutritionist. The world has changed in so many ways, yet when it comes to population health and resilience, there's still so much work to do particularly as we are met with new global challenges, nowadays often geopolitical in origin, but inevitably adding to the already complex burden of disease.
That said, I feel hopeful. The shared experience, commitment, and knowhow of our incredible virtual community of well over 1,000 professionals from almost half of the world’s nations is an intangible yet invaluable asset in our quest to harness science in the service of society. With continued momentum and directed efforts, I truly believe that the next 25 years can bring meaningful and lasting change for future generations including an increased understanding of our responsibilities linking food, nutrition, health, and climate change. We are all set to explore this fully in our end of year Summit including an exciting satellite event in the margins of COP 30 in the heart of the Amazon itself!
To mark my personal milestone this July and having now spent over half of my adult life in the support of the NNEdPro mission I have started the ball rolling by donating £50 to a cause close to my heart – supporting education for children living in two slum communities with which we have been working for several years – I will be visiting these communities with my daughter, Niki, in August and am looking forward to using proceeds from this crowdfunding campaign and other fundraising activities that we have started, to provide essential educational resources to these children as a small but tangible investment in tomorrow’s changemakers. If you can contribute (even £5 helps significantly), it would mean a great deal. We will keep everyone updated on impact of funds raised.
Thank you for your continued support and kindness.
– Shumone
Q2 HIGHLIGHTS
NNEdPro Contributes Nutrition Content to New Lifestyle Medicine Textbook
We are proud to announce that NNEdPro had the opportunity to co-write the nutrition section of the newly published Essential Lifestyle Medicine textbook.
This is the official textbook of the British Society for Lifestyle Medicine, a strategic collaborative partner of NNEdPro. The collaborative effort reflects our commitment to evidence-based, interdisciplinary approaches to health.
Special thanks to Dr Breanna Lepre, Dr Federica Amati, Professor Lauren Ball and Professor Sumantra Ray for their valuable contributions to this achievement. Thanks also to Dr Ellen Fallows, lead editor, for inviting NNEdPro to contribute.
NNEdPro-NICHE Partnership Strengthens Through Expert Lectures and Workshops at Ulster University
In April, NNEdPro partnered with Ulster University’s NICHE research group to host a series of impactful events featuring Professor Martin Kohlmeier, Editor-in-Chief of BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health, and Verónica Flores from Tec de Monterrey.
These well-attended sessions, including lectures and workshops on precision nutrition, publishing, and challenge-based learning, helped deepen collaboration in
nutrition education and innovation between our organisations.
We extend our sincere thanks to all involved in making these events a success, including BrianÓg Murphy, Francesco Giurdanella, Prof Pauline Douglas, and Dr Catherine Hughes.
Celebrating Excellence at the 2025 NNEdPro–IANE Awards Symposium
On 30th April, NNEdPro hosted the annual
NNEdPro–IANE Awards Symposium at Selwyn College, University of Cambridge, bringing together our global community to recognise outstanding contributions across nutrition education, research, and innovation.
This year marked the introduction of a new award category for Excellence in Medical Nutrition Education in the UK, co-judged with the Association for Nutrition and Nutritank,
with nominations received from three leading UK medical schools. A clear winner and runner-up were selected for their exceptional efforts in advancing medical nutrition education.
We were also proud to recognise a research group of outstanding calibre with the 2025 Outstanding Achievement Award, alongside numerous Fellows and Academy Members across a range of categories. This year’s symposium was especially meaningful as the IANE Academy officially surpassed 1,000 members — a milestone worth celebrating.
Our sincere thanks to Sucheta Mitra and the NNEdPro Operations Team for coordinating this year’s awards, as well as the expert judging panel for their time and dedication.
Gene-Edited Foods and Public Health: NNEdPro on Times Radio
On 6 May, NNEdPro’s Chief Scientist, Professor Sumantra Ray, appeared live on the Times Radio Breakfast Show to discuss the UK’s forthcoming legislation on gene-edited foods.
The interview explored key implications for food security, nutrition, and consumer health, and highlighted the importance of transparency, robust research, and public trust.
Read the blog here.
Dr Rajna Golubic Represents NNEdPro at 75th International Diabetes Federation Congress
We were proud to see Dr Rajna Golubic (NNEdPro Associate Director, BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health Associate Editor, and NIHR Clinical Lecturer in Diabetes and Endocrinology) deliver a prestigious invited talk at the 75th International Diabetes Federation Congress in Bangkok.
Dr Golubic’s presentation focused on the cost-effectiveness of lifestyle interventions and glucose-lowering treatments for diabetes prevention, drawing on the
NNEdPro Nutrition and Levels of Prevention Framework.
The IDF Congress brought together over 6,000 delegates from around the world, with strong representation from low- and
middle-income countries and a shared emphasis on prevention-oriented strategies in resource-constrained settings.
NNEdPro–King’s College London
Seminar and Partnership Launch
In May, NNEdPro joined King’s College London for a special seminar titled Global Nutrition, Health and Disease: From Molecules to Mankind. The event featured insights across the nutrition science spectrum and marked the beginning of a new phase of strategic partnership between NNEdPro and King’s.
The seminar was recorded and will be available for those who were unable to attend live. We look forward to building on this renewed collaboration through joint initiatives in research, education, and public engagement.
Bringing Mexican Flavours to Scotland: MTK Knowledge Exchange Workshop in Dundee
On 8th May, NNEdPro’s MTK Mexico Lead, Verónica Flores, led a vibrant knowledge exchange workshop at the Dundee International Women’s Centre. The session marked a significant step in adapting plant-based Mexican menu templates into the UK MTK repertoire, made possible through collaboration with the Scottish MTK team.
Participants included women from seven different countries, highlighting the
programme’s global reach and the power of food to connect cultures. The hands-on workshop inspired new ideas, including the potential development of an interventional cookbook focusing on the MENA region with adaptations for the UK context.
This workshop also coincided with the exciting news that UK MTK core funding has been extended into its second year; a promising step for future community-led
innovations in culinary education and nutrition.
Our heartfelt thanks to all in-person and remote contributors, and to the communications team for capturing and sharing the day’s highlights.
Professor Walter Willett to Deliver Keynote at the 11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition & Health
We are honoured to announce that Professor Walter Willett, EAT-Lancet Commission Co-Chair and Professor of Epidemiology and Nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, will be delivering a keynote at the 11th International Summit this December.
Reflecting on decades of work in nutritional epidemiology, Professor Willett’s talk will explore the extent to which evidence has informed meaningful changes in nutrition education and public behaviour. His session will conclude with an
interactive panel debate, co-hosted with the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior (SNEB) Foundation.
Dietary Patterns and Mental Health: NNEdPro Featured in BBC Coverage of New Study
A newly published study in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health examining links between dietary patterns and depressive symptoms has received widespread media attention, including BBC Radio coverage featuring insights from Professor Sumantra Ray.
The NNEdPro Global Institute, as co-owner of the journal, issued a response highlighting both the significance and limitations of the findings, and the need for further well-designed research in this area.
Read the full article.
IANE Webinars Spotlight Global Nutrition Innovations and Challenges
The International Academy of Nutrition Educators (IANE) continued its engaging webinar series this quarter, bringing together members and global partners to share diverse perspectives on nutrition in practice.
Dr Ebiambu Agwara delivered a compelling presentation in collaboration with one of our new partner organisations in Ghana, where an NNEdPro–IANE awardee is actively advancing community-based nutrition initiatives. Her talk explored gaps and opportunities in the nutritional management of hypertension in Ghana and similar West African contexts.
Dr Timothy Eden also presented on The Changing Landscape of Bowel Cancer in the UK, examining how nutrition can play a preventative and therapeutic role in cancer care.
Rounding out the quarter, Dr Dionysia Lyra shared insights from her research at the International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture in Dubai, highlighting halophytes — salt-tolerant edible plants — and their potential as functional foods in sustainable nutrition systems.
IANE webinars remain a cornerstone of our knowledge exchange efforts, bridging theory and practice across global regions.
Spotlight on the 11th International Summit and Satellite Events
The countdown is on! The 11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health returns this December, bringing together thought leaders, innovators, and practitioners to advance nutrition knowledge and equity on a global scale.
Registration is now open for the Main Summit, all Satellite Events, and a series of Masterclasses. Satellite events are free to attend with limited in-person spaces. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this global journey!
Bern Satellite Event on Nutrition in Population Health
10 July 2025 | 09:00–12:00 CEST
In-person & Virtual | Free to attend
Hosted in collaboration with Bern University of Applied Science, this event focuses on applying nutrition research to population-level health strategies, with cross-cutting themes in health equity and systems thinking.
Biel/Bienne Culinary Masterclass
10 July 2025 | 14:30–18:30 CEST
In-person only | Ticketed
This hands-on culinary masterclass explores sensory education and plant-forward menu innovation in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland.
Masterclass Kuala Lumpur Satellite Event: Nutrition, Disease Prevention & Systems Thinking
28 July 2025 | 14:00-17:00 MYT
In-person & Virtual | Free to attend
This session highlights interdisciplinary approaches to preventing non-communicable diseases through nutrition and systems-based solutions in the Malaysian context.
New Delhi Satellite Event: Masterclasses on Nutrition-Sensitive Policy
6–7 August 2025
In-person only | Ticketed
Held at and in collaboration with Shiv Nadar University, this two-day masterclass series focuses on policy-level approaches to nutrition resilience in India and the wider South Asian region.
Ulster Satellite Event: Precision Nutrition
5 November 2025 | 09:00–17:00 GMT
In-person & Virtual | Free to attend
Replacing the annual NICHE symposium, this event hosted in Northern Ireland delves into the science and practical application of precision nutrition strategies.
Belem Satellite Event on Food Security & Sustainability
24 November 2025 | 18:00–22:00 GMT-3
In-person & Virtual | Free to attend
Hosted in Brazil, this event addresses nutrition's role in shaping food systems and promoting sustainability, especially in the context of climate and equity.
Main Summit: Dundee & St Andrews, Scotland
10–13 December 2025
In-person & Virtual | Ticketed
Join us in Scotland for the full Summit experience:
10 December:Pre-Summit Symposium & Opening Reception at the James Hutton Institute (Dundee)
11–12 December:Main Summit at Dundee and Angus College, plus the Gala Tartan Dinner on the evening of the 11th
13 December:Global Youth Essay
Competition & Festival of Ideas at St Leonards School (St Andrews)
Note: IANE members receive a 30% discount on Main Summit registration. Join IANE today to claim your discount!
St Andrews Satellite Event on Medical Nutrition Education
13 December 2025 | 14:30–17:00 GMT
In-person & Virtual | Free to attend
Concluding the Summit, this dedicated session explores innovations in medical nutrition education and clinical learning, hosted by the University of St Andrews.
SHARE YOUR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES WITH A GLOBAL NETWORK
We are pleased to invite you to showcase career and academic opportunities on the International Academy of Nutrition Educators (IANE) portal.
IANE is a global, membership-based academy run by the NNEdPro Global Institute, dedicated to capacity building and professional development in nutrition education, research, and practice. Our platform connects professionals, students, and institutions across six continents.
You are welcome to submit listings including:
🔹 PhD opportunities
🔹 Academic or clinical job openings
🔹 Research or teaching placements
🔹 Internships and fellowships
📢 For a limited time, posting opportunities on our portal is completely free – helping you reach a wide, international audience of nutrition, health, and education professionals.
👉 Submit your opportunities here.
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to connect with a global talent pool! If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us.
BECOME A REVIEWER FOR BMJ NUTRITION, PREVENTION & HEALTH
We encourage all members to actively engage in the scientific community. By becoming a reviewer for BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health, you have the chance to stay up-to-date with the latest literature, advance your career, and establish your expertise and reputation in the field. Express your interest by reaching out to us at info.nutrition@bmj.com.
Online First Alerts - Ensure you stay ahead in your field by signing up here to receive alerts for Online First content in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. Be the first to access new publications and stay informed.
Visit the BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health webpage for more detailed information on editorial policies, open access, and author guidelines.
SHOWCASE YOUR RESEARCH WITH THE IKANN REGISTRY
Are you conducting research in food, nutrition, sustainable agriculture, or health?
Register your study on the iKANN Independent Research Registry to boost its visibility, uphold transparency, and connect with a global community of researchers.
Whether your project is ongoing or already completed, registering helps ensure quality, ethical standards, and long-term impact.
Bonus: Registered researchers receive 20% off article processing charges in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health and 20% off IANE membership.
BE AWARE
The official websites of NNEdPro Global Institute and its subsidiaries are listed below. Please note that any other websites with similar names which do not conform to these URLs are not run by us and do not represent our organisation:
Anna Edesia, named after "Annapurna" (the Hindu deity of food and nourishment) and "Edesia" (the Ancient Roman goddess of food), is NNEdPro's platform for highlighting our ongoing work, providing a snapshot of our key projects, ongoing research outputs and related publications - including from our flagship journal, BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health. Since 2023, Anna Edesia has been published in the form of blogs, continuing to share insights into our key projects, research, and publications. From June 2021 to June 2023, Anna Edesia was a quarterly magazine, and before that, it was shared as newsletters. |
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