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Author: Gerald Cheruiyot Reviewed by: Dr Kathy Martyn, Sarah Anderson One in four people worldwide is living with anaemia. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 25% of the global population is affected, with iron deficiency accounting for around half of all cases. Among women, the burden is even greater, affecting an estimated 31% globally compared with around 18% of men. Despite its scale, iron deficiency rarely receives the attention it deserves. Public conversations often focus on vitamin D, protein intake, and the latest wellness trends, while one of the world's most common and readily treatable nutritional deficiencies continues to affect billions of people. Iron deserves a far more prominent place in discussions about health and nutrition. The Warning Signs We Too Often Dismiss Iron plays a vital role in human health. It is a key component of haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body. When iron stores become depleted, oxygen delivery is compromised, affecting multiple organs and systems. The symptoms often develop gradually. Persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, reduced concentration, headaches, dizziness, and pale skin are among the most common signs. Yet many people, particularly women, come to regard these symptoms as a normal part of everyday life rather than indicators of an underlying deficiency. This normalisation is concerning. Iron deficiency anaemia, often preceded by deficient iron stores, remains the most common nutritional disorder globally, affecting quality of life, productivity, educational attainment, and overall well-being. What is often dismissed as tiredness may, in fact, be a sign of a condition that can be identified and treated. Who Is Most at Risk? Although iron deficiency can affect anyone, some groups face a considerably higher risk. Women of reproductive age are particularly vulnerable because of iron losses associated with menstruation. Heavy menstrual bleeding remains one of the leading causes of iron deficiency, yet conversations around prevention and early detection are often limited. Iron requirements also increase during pregnancy to support foetal development and the expansion of maternal blood volume. Adolescent girls face similar challenges, as rapid growth combined with the onset of menstruation increases their iron needs. Dietary patterns can also influence iron status. Individuals following vegetarian or vegan diets, or moving towards a plant-based diet, can meet their iron requirements but may need to pay closer attention to food choices because non-heme iron from plant foods is absorbed less efficiently than heme iron from animal sources. Meanwhile, conditions such as coeliac disease and Crohn's disease can impair iron absorption regardless of dietary intake. Collectively, these groups account for millions of people worldwide, highlighting that iron deficiency is not a niche nutritional issue but a widespread public health concern. From Plate to Prescription: Addressing Iron Deficiency Iron deficiency is both preventable and treatable. For many individuals, improving iron status begins with dietary change. Foods such as lean red meat, poultry, fish, fortified cereals, beans, lentils, tofu, nuts, seeds, some dried fruits and dark green leafy vegetables can all contribute meaningfully to iron intake. Understanding how iron is absorbed is equally important. Consuming vitamin C-rich foods alongside iron-containing meals can enhance absorption, while tea and coffee consumed around mealtimes may reduce it. However, food alone is not always sufficient. When iron deficiency is confirmed, supplementation may be necessary. Ferrous sulphate and ferrous fumarate remain among the most prescribed forms of oral iron, and current evidence suggests that once daily on an empty stomach or with a vitamin C-rich drink, or alternate day dosing may improve tolerance while maintaining effectiveness. Treatment should continue beyond symptom resolution to fully replenish iron stores. Equally important is identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the deficiency rather than focusing solely on restoring iron levels. The Cost of Looking the Other Way Perhaps the most frustrating aspect of iron deficiency is that it is both common and highly treatable. Yet many people continue to live with symptoms for months or even years before seeking advice or receiving a diagnosis. A simple blood test can identify iron deficiency and guide appropriate treatment. For anyone experiencing persistent fatigue, breathlessness, reduced concentration, or unexplained low energy levels, assessing iron status may be an important first step. Given its impact on health, education, productivity, and quality of life, iron deficiency deserves far greater attention from healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public alike. Addressing it will not solve every nutrition challenge we face, but it represents one of the clearest opportunities to improve health outcomes through timely identification, appropriate treatment and informed dietary choices. This commentary is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding concerns about your health or nutritional status. References World Health Organization (WHO). Anaemia. Fact Sheet. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2025. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/anaemia World Health Organization (WHO). Anaemia in Women and Children. Global Health Observatory Data; 2025. Available at: https://www.who.int/data/gho/data/themes/topics/anaemia_in_women_and_children British Dietetic Association (BDA). Iron: Food Fact Sheet. British Dietetic Association. Available at: https://www.bda.uk.com/resource/iron-rich-foods-iron-deficiency.html NHS Scotland. Iron Deficiency Anaemia Guidelines. Available at: https://rightdecisions.scot.nhs.uk

Author: Sarah Anderson Edited by: Professor Sumantra (Shumone) Ray What does resilience in nutrition look like today? Across many parts of Europe, recent days have brought record-breaking temperatures, serving as another reminder of the growing links between climate, health and nutrition. As communities adapt to increasingly frequent extreme weather events, the need for evidence-informed nutrition, resilient food systems and global collaboration has never been more important. In this edition of the Anna Edesia newsletter, we share updates from across the NNEdPro network that reflect this collective effort. From activities led by our India team and developments across the International Academy for Nutrition Educators (IANE), to new opportunities to connect through the 12th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health, this issue highlights the breadth of work taking place across our global community. With our first Summit Satellite Event taking place next month and abstract submissions now open, there are plenty of ways to get involved, whether by sharing your research, expanding your professional network, or contributing to conversations that will help shape the future of nutrition and health. We also feature updates on our new Strategic Plan, opportunities through PANCO membership, careers within the nutrition sector, and other initiatives designed to support learning, collaboration and impact. Wherever you are in the world, we hope this edition keeps you informed, inspired and connected with colleagues working towards better nutrition and health for all. Summit 2026 Satellite Events Begin in July Preparations for the 12th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health continue to gather momentum, with the first of this year's pre-Summit Satellite Events taking place on 20th July! Running across multiple regions, these events provide opportunities to connect with experts, share knowledge, and explore regional priorities ahead of the Main Summit in November. Our upcoming Summit events for the coming quarter include: The Global North Symposium: Exploring Pathways to Nutrition Security & Equity at King's College London (20 July). The Global South Symposium: Pathways to Nutrition Empowerment across Diverse Communities hosted by Tecnológico de Monterrey in Mexico City (31 August), The International Awards Symposium at Bern University of Applied Sciences (10 September). All three events offer hybrid participation, with limited in-person places still available. Submit Your Abstracts The call for abstracts for the Main Summit is now open. This year, submissions are invited through two streams: the Student Abstract Competition (virtual track) and the Professional Abstract Call (Main Summit track). We welcome research aligned with the Summit theme, as well as wider scientific work across food, nutrition and health. Accepted abstracts may be considered for publication in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. We encourage delegates to register and submit their abstracts early. Student abstract submissions close on 15 August, while professional abstract submissions close on 15 September. Whether you are an early-career researcher, clinician, educator or experienced professional, we look forward to showcasing the latest research and innovations from across our global community. Announcements Looking Ahead: NNEdPro Strategy 2026-2030 NNEdPro is publishing its new Five-Year Strategy (2026-2030), setting out an ambitious vision for the next phase of our journey: empowering global nutrition knowledge for a healthier, fairer world. Building on the progress and lessons of the past five years, the strategy outlines how NNEdPro will strengthen its role as a global institute for research, education and knowledge translation. It places a renewed emphasis on measurable impact, sustainable growth, digital innovation and partnerships that bridge the gap between evidence, policy and practice. The strategy also reaffirms our commitment to tackling malnutrition in all its forms by supporting professionals, policymakers and communities with trusted, evidence-informed nutrition knowledge. As we continue to expand our global reach, this roadmap will guide our work towards creating lasting improvements across food, nutrition and health systems. NB: This version of our 2026-2030 Strategic Plan is currently published in DRAFT for consultation over July 2026 and is expected to be reissued in its FINAL form in our new financial year commencing August 2026. Introducing a New Pathway to Professional Recognition through IANE The International Academy of Nutrition Educators (IANE) is pleased to introduce an enhanced membership framework, providing greater opportunities for professionals to gain recognised credentials and demonstrate their expertise in nutrition education. Alongside our existing portfolio assessment route, we will soon launch the IANE Advanced Professional Diplomate Examination. This new assessment pathway will enable eligible professionals to demonstrate the knowledge and competencies expected of a Professional Member of IANE, offering an alternative route to achieving MIANE (Member of the International Academy of Nutrition Educators) status. Designed to benchmark advanced knowledge, the examination will assess evidence-based nutrition, critical appraisal and applied professional practice through a combination of written assessments and applied tasks. Successful candidates will be awarded Professional Membership and the internationally recognised MIANE post-nominals, signifying their commitment to excellence in nutrition education. IANE continues to offer a clear pathway for professional recognition across every stage of a career, from AIANE (Associate Member) through to MIANE (Professional Member) and FIANE (Fellow). These post-nominals provide internationally recognised recognition of professional achievement while connecting members to a global community committed to advancing nutrition education, research and practice. Further information on the new membership pathways, eligibility criteria and examination launch will be announced in the coming months. Exclusive Member Benefit: One Year of Complimentary PANCO Membership As part of the growing partnership between NNEdPro and PAN International, all current NNEdPro-IANE members in paid subscribing membership grades can now claim one year of complimentary PANCO Premium Membership. PANCO is PAN International's global learning and professional community for healthcare professionals, providing access to CPD courses, exclusive educational resources, international networking opportunities, conference discounts, members-only events and an extensive library of learning materials. Together, our organisations are committed to strengthening nutrition education and supporting healthcare professionals around the world. This partnership extends beyond member benefits. PAN International is an organisational partner of NNEdPro, and both organisations have committed funding to support the GNOME Initiative (Global Nutrition Observatory for Medical Education), helping to advance evidence generation, collaboration and capacity building in medical nutrition education worldwide. If you are an IANE member in a paid subscription grade, don't miss this opportunity to expand your professional network and access a wealth of additional learning resources. Claim your complimentary one-year PANCO membership using the link below. Recent Events 15 May 2026 | Leadership Talk at Shiv Nadar University Professor Sumantra Ray delivered a keynote as part of Shiv Nadar University's Leadership Talk Series, exploring how international networks can help address complex global challenges. Drawing on NNEdPro's work across six continents, the session highlighted the importance of collaboration in advancing nutrition education, research and policy. 18 May 2026 | MTK Conclave Marks a Decade of Impact The Mobile Teaching Kitchen (MTK) Conclave 2026 brought together researchers, educators and practitioners to celebrate ten years of the initiative and explore the theme From Practice to Policy. Hosted in partnership with Amity University, the hybrid symposium reflected on the MTK's evolution from a single community kitchen in Kolkata into a globally adapted model spanning five countries. 20 May 2026 | IANE Webinar Explores Culinary Medicine IANE hosted a webinar on Culinary Medicine and Nutrition Education: Why, What and How?, bringing together experts to discuss the growing role of culinary medicine in healthcare education and professional practice. The session formed part of IANE's ongoing programme of CPD opportunities for members and the wider nutrition community. You can read an overview of the webinar here. 21 April | Mediterranean Diet Forum NNEdPro partnered with the Italian Embassy in London for a successful inaugural roundtable establishing the Mediterranean Diet Forum as a scientific and strategic platform to advance knowledge, collaboration, and action around healthy dietary patterns. The event brought together a select group of stakeholders from the UK and Italy across academia, healthcare, policy, and the food system to define the Forum’s vision, scope, and future direction, and highlighted the value of international partnerships in advancing nutrition research and policy. 22 April | Interdisciplinary Workshop Explores Food Security and Sustainable Food Systems NNEdPro and the University of Parma jointly hosted an invitation-only interdisciplinary workshop bringing together experts in law, economics and nutrition to explore food security and sustainable food systems. Held as part of the FOSTER Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence, the event fostered cross-disciplinary dialogue on the legal, economic, policy and nutritional dimensions of food systems, with a focus on sustainability, equity and the human right to food. Read more here. Summer School 2026 - 23 to 24 April Cambridge Summer School Welcomes Global Cohort Another successful Cambridge Summer School in Applied Human Nutrition brought together participants from 11 countries representing healthcare, biological and social sciences. The programme continues to provide an internationally recognised learning experience, equipping professionals with practical, evidence-informed knowledge to improve nutrition practice. More details, including registration information, can be found here. Around our Networks NNEdPro at the World Health Assembly, Geneva NNEdPro was represented at a PAN International and EAT-Lancet side event during the World Health Assembly in Geneva. The event strengthened collaborations with international partners and reinforced our shared commitment to advancing nutrition within global health policy. Contributing to the Global Nutrition Report 2026 NNEdPro participated in the official launch of the Global Nutrition Report 2026 at the FAO. As a registered contributor to the report, NNEdPro continues to support global commitments to improving equitable access to nutrition knowledge and strengthening nutrition systems worldwide. Little Literacy Library Celebrates Five Years The Little Literacy Library Initiative celebrated its fifth anniversary at RG Kar, Kolkata, showcasing the achievements of children participating in the programme. The milestone highlighted the initiative's continuing impact in supporting literacy, nutrition education and community engagement in underserved areas. Scottish Mobile Teaching Kitchen Launches New Phase The Scottish Mobile Teaching Kitchen launched the next phase of its programme with a community microenterprise event at the St Andrews Summer Fayre. The initiative combined practical nutrition education with healthy food demonstrations, engaging more than 100 visitors while showcasing new protein-rich products developed through the project. RECENT BLOG POSTS Culinary Medicine and Nutrition Education - Why, what and how? Inside the NNEdPro Summer School: A Reflection on Learning, Practice and Perspective Exploring Food Consumption Behaviour Among Eritrean Migrants in Switzerland: A Scoping Study Advertising in the Anna Edesia The Anna Edesia newsletter provides a valuable platform to share opportunities, events, publications and initiatives with a global audience working across food, nutrition and health. With a diverse readership spanning academia, healthcare, policy and industry, it offers a targeted way to reach engaged professionals and organisations. We welcome enquiries from partners and organisations interested in featuring in upcoming editions. Whether you are promoting an event, recruitment opportunity or new initiative, we would be pleased to discuss suitable options. Contact us via info@nnedpro.org.uk. 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. 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: www.nnedpro.org.uk vle.nnedpro.org.uk www.iane.online www.createacademy.online www.mtki.org www.nutritionresearchregistry.org Anna Edesia, named after "Annapurna" (the Ancient Indian 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.

Speakers: Prof Tamara Bucher & Ms Franziska Scheidegger-Balmer Author: Rishi Khiroya Edited by: Sarah Armes, Sarah Anderson, Prof Sumantra (Shumone) Ray This blog summarises key discussions and findings from an International Academy of Nutrition Educators (IANE) webinar. The full webinar recording will be available on the NNEdPro VLE. Culinary Nutrition in Practice: Moving beyond Healthy Eating Advice Nutrition advice is widely available, yet many people still struggle to apply it in everyday life. Between busy schedules, rising food costs, limited cooking confidence, and increasing reliance on convenience foods, knowing what to eat does not always translate into healthier habits. These were a handful of the key themes explored during a recent webinar focused on culinary nutrition and culinary medicine. Throughout the webinar, the speakers discussed how practical food skills, cooking confidence, and food literacy may support healthier behaviours and improve long-term health outcomes. Rather than focusing solely on nutritional theory, the session highlighted how nutrition education can be translated into real-world settings through hands-on learning, community programmes, and accessible resources. Bridging the Gap Between Knowledge and Everyday Life One of the central themes explored during the webinar was the growing disconnect between nutrition knowledge and daily practice. The speakers highlighted the decline in home cooking and increasing reliance on meals prepared outside the home, trends that may contribute to poorer diet quality over time. Alongside this, presenters discussed how healthcare professionals often receive limited nutrition education, despite diet-related disease remaining a major public health concern. The webinar explored the growing fields of culinary nutrition and culinary medicine, both of which support food security by equipping people with the skills, knowledge, and access they need to consistently make and consume healthy meals. While culinary nutrition often focuses on community education and food literacy, culinary medicine is more closely linked to healthcare settings and the concept of “food as medicine” to support disease prevention and management. Importantly, the speakers emphasised that cooking skills are about far more than simply following recipes. Culinary education programmes may help improve confidence, independence, food literacy, and the ability to make healthier food choices in everyday life. Behaviour change, accessibility, and sustainability were recurring themes throughout the presentation. Accessibility, Independence and Community-Based Approaches A range of programmes and frameworks were presented during the webinar, each exploring different ways culinary nutrition can be applied in practice. One of the featured initiatives was the “No Money No Time” programme, which focused on helping individuals make healthier food choices despite barriers such as limited time and affordability. The platform allows users to assess the nutritional quality of their meals and provides practical suggestions and healthier alternatives where appropriate. The programme aims to address the competing priorities people face around food, so nutrition advice and suggestions must be realistic and practical. Another key initiative mentioned was the Cook-Ed model, a framework designed to help culinary programme providers identify and incorporate cooking skills that may support improved dietary and health outcomes. The framework emphasised the importance of evidence-based programme development and highlighted how culinary education interventions can be more systematically designed and evaluated, rather than delivered as isolated sessions. The webinar also explored the role of culinary medicine within healthcare education. It highlighted the growing awareness that traditional medical education does not adequately cover nutrition. The speakers discussed how culinary medicine may help bridge this gap, with a successful programme including features such as teaching nutrition knowledge translation into clinical scenarios and providing practical cooking experience. There was also an emphasis on developing a Food Literacy Tool for young adults, recognising that this population consumes the highest proportion of ultra-processed foods in Switzerland. The researchers highlighted that many young adults are increasingly living alone and may face barriers such as limited time, space, and resources for cooking. The project aimed to develop and test a tool to assess skills and nutrition knowledge, helping inform future culinary nutrition interventions tailored to this population. One of the most impactful examples presented was the EssEntial programme, which focused on supporting young adults with intellectual disabilities through culinary nutrition education. Individuals with intellectual disabilities face greater health inequalities than the general population, whilst independent living may also be associated with increased sedentary behaviour and poorer dietary habits. The speakers discussed how culinary nutrition programmes like the EssEntial programme may support not only nutritional knowledge, but also confidence, independence, and social participation. Researchers used focus groups and expert input to identify important skills and develop an accessible intervention relevant to everyday life. The programme included eight modules covering kitchen safety, food safety, cooking skills, and nutrition, using simple everyday recipes. Final Reflections Overall, the webinar highlighted how culinary nutrition and culinary medicine are evolving beyond traditional healthy eating advice. Rather than focusing solely on nutrients and dietary recommendations, many of the approaches discussed aimed to empower individuals with practical skills, confidence, and greater independence in their food choices. The webinar also demonstrated the importance of accessibility, behaviour change, and community involvement when designing nutrition interventions. Whether through healthcare education, food literacy programmes, or community-based activities, culinary nutrition has growing potential as a practical public health tool. Ultimately, the sessions reinforced that improving nutrition is not simply about providing information but helping people develop the confidence, skills, and support needed to apply that knowledge in everyday life. References: Asher, R.C. et al. (2020) ‘Cook-EdTM: A model for planning, implementing and evaluating cooking programs to improve diet and health’, Nutrients, 12(7), p. 2011. Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/7/2011

12th international Summit on food, nutrition & health Human Skills, Artificial Intelligence and Global Challenges From Ethics and Implementation to Inequalities 23-25 November 2026 | Malta Event organised by Main Summit event hosted by Lead Partners Programme Registration Speakers Abstracts Supporters FAQs More... JOIN US IN MALTA! The NNEdPro Global Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health, in lead partnership with BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health, the International Academy of Nutrition Educators (IANE), the iKANN Nutrition Research Registry , the Global Nutrition, Health & Disease Programme at Ulster University and the Mobile Teaching Kitchen International (MTKi) Initiative , is thrilled to announce the 12th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health be held in Malta from 23 to 25 November 2026. Under the theme “Human Skills, Artificial Intelligence and Global Challenges: From Ethics and Implementation to Inequalities ”, the Summit will bring together global experts, practitioners and policymakers to explore how advances in artificial intelligence are reshaping research, education and practice across food, nutrition and health. At a time when AI is accelerating innovation, the 12th Summit will emphasise the importance of ethical and equitable implementation to ensure these technologies support, rather than exacerbate, global inequalities. Aligned with Target 2030, the programme will focus on sustainable and inclusive progress, recognising that addressing interconnected climate, health and nutrition challenges requires meaningful collaboration between human and artificial intelligence. 2026 Stakeholder Information Accommodation Options 2026 Abstracts Photos from the 2025 Summit in Dundee & St Andrews, Scotland . View the full album here . 2025 Abstracts Attendance at the Summit is eligible for Royal Society of Biology (RSB) CPD points, as we underwent successful RSB accreditation awarding 87 points for the main Summit events, and delegates may record these points as part of their continuing professional development. Delegates of the NNEdPro Summit are entitled to a 20% discount on the cost of publishing an article in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health . Ethics & Governance Fair, transparent, responsible AI. Innovation & Implementation Practical AI tools in food, nutrition and health. Research Frontiers Data science and emerging applications. Education & Capacity Building Digital learning and Illiteracy. Sustainability & Global Impact Climate resilience and planetary health. Core Thematic Tracks Programme Registration Summit Events Pre-Summit Satellite Event Global North Symposium London | UK Kings College London London | UK 20 July 2026 Hybrid Register Pre-Summit Satellite Event international awards Symposium Bern University of Applied Sciences Bern | Switzerland 10 September 2026 Hybrid Register Pre-Summit Satellite Event Scientific advances symposium Ulster University Ulster | Northern Ireland 4 November 2026 Hybrid Register Pre-Summit Satellite Event Global south Symposium Tec de Monterrey Mexico City | Mexico 31 August 2026 Hybrid Register Pre-Summit Satellite Event international policy dialogues NNEdPro Regional Networks Mini Symposia October 2026 Online Register Register Main Summit 12th international summit University of Malta Valletta | Malta 23-25 November 2026 Hybrid Accommodation Post-Summit Satellite Event Climate Change Symposium São Paulo | Brazil December 2026 Hybrid Register Post-Summit Satellite Event global youth symposium St Andrews | Scotland December 2026 Hybrid Register Summit Chairs & Key Speakers International Summit Co-Chairs / Key Speakers Prof Karen Mugliett University of Malta Prof Pauline Douglas NNEdPro | Ulster Prof Sumantra Ray NNEdPro | Ulster | Cambridge | London Prof Suzanne Piscopo Honorary President of NNEdPro & Senior Dean of IANE University of Malta | SNEB Past President BMJ NPH Editors-in-Chief Dr Jimmy Louie BMJ NPH Co-Editor-in-Chief Dr Kathy Martyn BMJ NPH Co-Editor-in-Chief Prof Martin Kohlmeier Emeritus BMJ NPH Co-Editor-in-Chief Speakers Main Summit Key Speakers Prof Ahlam Badreldin El Shikieri Taibah University Dr Alan Flannagan University of Surrey Dr Anand Ahankari Manchester Metropolitan University Dr Claire Copperstone University of Malta Dr Eoin Ryan Irish College of General Practitioners Helena Triguiero Consultant, Food and Health Policy at European Parliament Francesco Giurdanella NNEdPro Prof Gaudan Galea University of Malta Jaroslav Guzanic Swiss Association for Cooperation on Nutrition Education Jørgen Johnsen Ulster University Dr Jeffrey Bohn Director Energy Economics at the Anthropocene Institute Priyanka Kotak NNEdPro Dr Rajna Golubić Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Sarah Armes NNEdPro Prof Dr Tamara Bucher Professor in Nutrition and Dietetics at the Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) Prof Vanessa Camilleri University of Malta Satellite Event Speakers Dr Fiona Lavelle King's College London Dr Harry Jarrett HEIGHTS Dr Jeannine Baumgartner King's College London Dr Kathy Martyn University of Brighton Dr Ran Crooke WellFounded Health Dr Roberta Re Cambridge Food Science Sarah Armes NNEdPro Sophie Ognjenovic King's College London Prof Sumantra Ray NNEdPro NNEdPro Leadership Directorial Board Honorary Presidential Officers Summit Contributions from NNEdPro & IANE Members and Regional Networks NNEdPro and IANE have close to 1000 members straddling the International Virtual Core and the International Collaborators Group , all of whom are invited to contribute to the Summit. NNEdPro and IANE also work with several Strategic Collaborative Partners , including academic institutions and specialist organisations. Leads from our 10 Regional Networks spanning nearly 80 countries will also contribute directly to the shaping of the 2026 Summit events. Our Summit is also supported by our Youth Ambassadors . Abstracts Abstract Submissions The call for abstracts for the 12th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health will take place through two separate submission streams: Student Abstract Competition (Student Track – virtual only) Main Summit Abstract Call (Professional Track) We welcome submissions aligned with the Summit theme, as well as broader scientific topics related to food, nutrition, and health. Abstracts relevant to BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health Special Collections are also encouraged. Accepted abstracts will be published in the open-access journal BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health . Registration for the main summit is required for publication in BMJ NPH. Submission Process You must register for the Main Summit to have your abstract published. Student Track: You can only submit one abstract per registration. Professional Track: Virtual attendees can only submit one abstract per registration; in-person attendees can submit up to 3 abstracts per registration. All abstract submissions must be made via the online Typeforms linked below (no email submissions or document uploads will be accepted). The judges will review the online presentation videos. We encourage early submission, particularly as abstract submission is now open ahead of the standard timeline. View the 2025 Abstracts Student Abstract Competition Virtual Track Eligibility and Submission Requirements Open only to individuals who are currently students or who were students at the time the research was conducted. Accepted abstracts must have an applicable, paid registration for the Main Summit (Virtual or In-Person) in order to be published in BMJ NPH. The primary author must be a student. Important Notes on Attendance This is a fully virtual competition. Submission Limits One abstract per student submission (unless otherwise specified). Review Process Judged separately from the Main Summit abstracts. Reviewed by an expert virtual panel led by the South East and East Asia Regional Network, including: Chaired by: Prof Martin Kohlmeier | BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health Prof Dr Geeta Appannah | IMU University Dr Mary Chong | National University of Singapore Prof Dr Norlaila Mustafa | Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre Presentation and Dissemination Accepted abstracts will be presented virtually. Video presentation is required. Physical posters are not required. E-posters will be displayed on the website and on monitors at the Summit. Further format details will be shared in due course. Please find the ePoster specifications in the “Abstract Guidance 2026” document below. Key Dates Submission deadline : 15 August Acceptance notifications : 15 September Video submission deadline (along with abstract revisions if required): 30 September Winners announced : 25 November Submit an Abstract Abstract Guidance 2026 e-Poster Template Professional Abstract Call (Main Summit) In-Person Track Eligibility and Submission Requirements Open to professionals and researchers who have a paid registration for the Main Summit. Accepted abstracts must have an applicable, paid registration for the Main Summit (Virtual or In-Person) in order to be published in BMJ NPH. Submission Limits Virtual attendees can only submit one abstract per registration. In-person attendees can submit up to 3 abstracts per registration. Posters Accepted abstracts will be presented as e-posters at the in-person Summit in Malta. Authors are required to attend in person to present their poster. The presenting author does not need to be the first author. In-person presenters are expected to discuss their work during designated breaks. Please find the ePoster specifications in the “Abstract Guidance 2026” document below. Video Submission Authors of accepted abstracts will be invited to submit a short video (3 to 4 minutes recommended; maximum 5 minutes) presenting their work; this will be displayed on the website prior to the Summit. Review Process Judged separately from the Student Abstracts. Reviewed by an expert virtual panel including: Chaired by: A/Prof Jimmy Louie and Dr Kathy Martyn, Co-Editors of BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health Dr Ahlam El Shikieri | Taibah University Dr Alan Flanagan | University of Surrey Dr Anand Ahankari | Manchester Metropolitan University Prof Clare Wall | University of Auckland Key Dates Submission deadline : 15 September Acceptance notifications : 15 October Video and poster submission deadline : 1 November Winners Announced : 25 November Submit an Abstract Abstract Guidance 2026 e-Poster Template Supporters Partners LEAD PARTNERS Global Nutrition [Health & Disease] SUPPORTING PARTNERS HOST ORGANISATIONS Supporters Looking to showcase your brand alongside the below leading organisations driving real change in the world of food, nutrition and health? Join us as a supporter and make your mark! We offer a variety of dynamic supporter packages and exhibitor opportunities tailored to maximise your impact. Click on the link below to discover how you can be part of this exciting journey. Supporter Packages Platinum Supporters Silver Supporters Summit Organisers The Summit Organising Committee also includes several moderators, speakers and panellists. Debashis Chakraborty Summit Organising Committee Francesco Giurdanella Summit Organising Committee | Global Youth Essay Competition Representative Gerald Cheruiyot Summit Organising Committee | Social Media Coordination Jorgen Johnsen BMJ Poster Competition & Abstracts Panel Joyce Haddad International Awards Symposium Representative Karen Mugliett Summit Co-Chair Kathy Martyn Summit Organising Committee | BMJ Poster Competition & Abstracts Panel Matheus Abrantes Summit Organising Committee | Global South Symposium Representative Pauline Douglas Summit Organising Committee | Scientific Advances Symposium Representative Priyanka Kotak Summit Organising Committee | Global Youth Essay Competition Representative Ramya Rajaram Academic Lead of Summit Organising Committee Rauf Khalid Summit Organising Committee | Global North Symposium Representative Samyyia Ashraf Global Youth Essay Competition Representative Sarah Anderson Operations Lead of Summit Organising Committee Sarah Armes Summit Organising Committee | Global North Symposium Representative Sucheta Mitra Summit Organising Committee | International Awards Symposium Representative Sumantra Ray Summit Co-Chair Suzanne Piscopo Summit Organising Committee | Honorary President of NNEdPro & Senior Dean of IANE Veronica Flores Bello Global South Symposium Representative FAQs Frequently Asked Questions What is included in the fee? Registration to the Main Summit includes In-Person/Virtual Access to the live sessions on the selected date. If you are attending in person, your registration also includes a snack on the selected date. As a delegate of the NNEdPro Summit, you are entitled to a 20% discount on the cost of publishing an article in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. The fee does not include accommodation, transportation, visa or any travel-related costs. How to avail of students and groups discount? For students discount, please go to the registration page and select the students option. For groups discount, please write to us at info@nnedpro.org.uk and we are happy to discuss your requirements. Privacy Policy Registration and attendance at, or participation in the event constitutes an agreement by the registrant to the organiser's use and distribution (both now and in the future) of the registrant or attendee's image or voice in photographs, videotapes, electronic reproductions and audiotapes. Malta (Main Summit) Travel Requirements Whilst we cannot provide direct advice on visas and other travel requirements, please note that: You may require a visa to enter Malta. Malta is part of the Schengen Area, and many non-EU nationals need a Schengen visa for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period). Please check the official Maltese visa/Schengen guidance and/or the nearest Maltese embassy or consulate in your country. Your passport must meet Schengen entry rules (commonly: issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area). Some airlines and transit points may apply additional checks. You may need vaccine certificates in specific circumstances (for example, proof of yellow fever vaccination if arriving from, or transiting through, an affected area). Please check the latest health requirements via official travel health advice. Customs regulations apply, and certain items may be restricted or subject to allowances (including alcohol and tobacco). Please check current Maltese customs rules before travelling. Declaring large sums of money: if you enter, leave, or transit through Malta with €10,000 (or equivalent) or more in cash (including certain cash-like instruments), you must declare it to Customs in line with applicable EU rules. Sherpa is a helpful tool when checking visa and entry requirements. For accurate and up-to-date information, please check with the nearest Maltese embassy or consulate in your country. Please note that this information is provided as guidance only. You are responsible for ensuring you meet all Malta entry requirements, and NNEdPro does not take responsibility if you fail to do so. Any more questions? Please contact us at info@nnedpro.org.uk Previous Years 2015 Read More > 2016 Read More > 2017 Read More > 2021 Read More > 2022 Read More > 2023 Read More > 2018 Read More > 2019 Read More > 2020 Read More > 2024 Read More > 2025 Read More > Summit Proceedings 2015 – Launch of the International Summit on Medical and Public Health Nutrition Education and Research 2016 – Nutrition education and research for public health impact 2017 - From education and research through to policy and practice 2018 - Connecting nutrition as hard science and international knowledge networks 2019 - Closing the gap: data-based decisions in food, nutrition and health systems 2020 - An Evaluation of Global Knowledge Networks in the UN Decade of Action on Nutrition (2016-2025) 2021 - Advancing research, policy and practice to promote resilient and sustainable food and health systems in the year of action on nutrition 2022 - Empowering global nutrition with digital technology: Proceedings of the 8th annual International Summit on Nutrition and Health 2023 - Sustainable Resourcing for All in Food & Nutrition Security: Creative solutions for healthy & resilient populations – Proceedings of the 9th annual International Summit on Nutrition and Health 2024 - Democratising and Decolonising Food and Nutrition: From Science to Society Previous Years Programme Registration Speakers Abstracts Supporters FAQs Previous Years Top of Page Programme Registration Speakers Abstracts Supporters FAQs Previous Years International Summit

NNEdPro Global Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health is an award-winning interdisciplinary think-tank, building upon 10 years of nutrition education, research and innovation. 2025 IMPACT REPORT Target 2030: Food and Nutrition Policy - From Human to Planetary Health Published December 2025 APPEAL: 18 years of impact. One shared goal: a world where nutrition shapes policy and saves lives. We can't do it without you. Back our crowdfunding campaign today and help NNEdPro reach Target 2030. Donate Now - every pound counts. Founded in Cambridge (UK) in 2008 and directed by Professor Sumantra (Shumone) Ray , the NNEdPro Global Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health, along with its partner initiatives seeks to advance and implement food and nutrition knowledge for health and society. Our aim is to improve nutrition-related health outcomes by training professionals, strengthening research, implementing solutions and addressing inequalities, in line with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals . Together, through cutting-edge action-oriented research, training, and interdisciplinary partnerships, we can improve food and health systems – from production through to consumption, and beyond into frontline healthcare – focusing on equitable access to knowhow at all levels, to change behaviours and facilitate sustainable improvements in global nutrition. Check out our latest Impact Report and join us in shaping the future - your support makes a difference! Proudly working with let's end malnutrition by 2030 OUR TOP OFFERINGS The Mobile Teaching Kitchen International Initiative The NNEdPro Mobile Teaching Kitchen International Initiative empowers vulnerable community members by teaching skills such as culinary nutrition education and microenterprise. It aims to enhance the health and wellbeing as well as address the economic challenges of women, children and families, including those at risk of nutritional deficiencies. LEARN MORE DONATE forum for democratising food & nutrition: A Knowledge & Advocacy Initiative Following the resounding success of our 2024 Summit on Democratising and Decolonising Food & Nutrition, attended in person by over 500 delegates and supported by a vast number of global and regional stakeholders, we are pleased to announce the creation of a knowledge and advocacy forum dedicated to progressing the actions arising from this highly impactful Summit. LEARN MORE DONATE Global Nutrition Observatory for Medical Education (GNOME) Initiative The Global Nutrition Observatory for Medical Education (GNOME) initiative aims to act as a global platform to gather evidence, strengthen regional networks and drive policy change so that nutrition education becomes an integral part of medical training worldwide. LEARN MORE DONATE BMJ NUTRITION, PREVENTION & HEALTH A peer-reviewed journal publishing high-quality research on the role of nutrition in disease prevention, health promotion, and policy impact. Read More > ADVISORY SERVICES To provide independent, evidence-informed advisory and consulting support to organisations across health, education, food systems, and policy, translating nutrition science into practical, scalable solutions for real-world impact. Read More > DATA SCIENCE AND EVIDENCE SyNtHESIS HUB A hub for advancing research literacy and analytical skills through tailored training, collaborative projects, and evidence-based insights for informed decision-making in nutrition and health. Read More > foundation certificate in applied human nutrition An intensive programme equipping professionals with evidence-based knowledge and practical skills in nutrition science, research, and policy to drive global health impact. Read More > INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF NUTRITION EDUCATORS A global network supporting professionals in advancing nutrition education, leadership, and research to improve health outcomes worldwide. Read More > human nutrition intervention studies To offer expert support, guiding organisations in designing, implementing, and evaluating evidence-based strategies to improve dietary behaviours, health outcomes, and nutrition policies. Read More > NNEdpro in the news our numbers +28,800 Followers across all social media platforms. +24,000 People served annually by our base Mobile Teaching Kitchen. +315 Alumni of our flagship summer school & foundation certificate training. 100 S Professionals receiving specialised training in nutrition and health every year. +500 In person registrants for our 2024 International Summit and many more online. +350 Invitations to deliver academic teaching & scientific presentations. our publications +240 Peer-reviewed journal papers directly led by our projects. +70 Scientific articles for knowledge dissemination. +13 Textbooks and chapter contributions. We successfully completed the 11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health in Scotland in December 2025 under the theme Target 2030: Food and Nutrition Policy - From Human to Planetary Health . Please take some time to check the photos from the event, the outstanding abstracts we received, and how our programme went. Please also take a moment to learn about our 2026 Summit here . Establishment of a Scottish hub NNEdPro has an established and growing presence in Scotland, building on longstanding roots in clinical and public health nutrition and strengthened by the opening of our strategy office in Dundee. Since then, we have developed a strong regional network, delivered impactful community programmes through the Mobile Teaching Kitchen, and formed strategic partnerships with leading academic, community, and policy organisations. From large-scale events such as the 11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health to local culinary education initiatives reaching over a thousand community members, our work in Scotland reflects a commitment to collaboration, innovation, and sustainable impact, with plans to further expand our reach and contribution in the years ahead. Learn more about our Scottish hub here . Latest CONTENT Iron Deficiency: Hiding in Plain Sight Author: Gerald Cheruiyot Reviewed by: Dr Kathy Martyn, Sarah Anderson One in four people worldwide is living with anaemia. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 25% of the global population is affected, with iron deficiency accounting for around half of all cases. Among women, the burden is even greater, affecting an estimated 31% globally compared with around 18% of men. Despite its scale, iron deficiency rarely receives the attention it deserves. Public Anna Edesia - July 2026 NewsletteR Author: Sarah Anderson Edited by: Professor Sumantra (Shumone) Ray What does resilience in nutrition look like today? Across many parts of Europe, recent days have brought record-breaking temperatures, serving as another reminder of the growing links between climate, health and nutrition. As communities adapt to increasingly frequent extreme weather events, the need for evidence-informed nutrition, resilient food systems and global collaboration has never been more important. Culinary Medicine and Nutrition Education - Why, what and how? Speakers: Prof Tamara Bucher & Ms Franziska Scheidegger-Balmer Author: Rishi Khiroya Edited by: Sarah Armes, Sarah Anderson, Prof Sumantra (Shumone) Ray This blog summarises key discussions and findings from an International Academy of Nutrition Educators (IANE) webinar. The full webinar recording will be available on the NNEdPro VLE. Culinary Nutrition in Practice: Moving beyond Healthy Eating Advice Nutrition advice is widely available, yet many people still struggl read our blogs read our articles & Newsletters Partner initiatives founded by the NNEdPro Global Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health Global Nutrition [Health & Disease]

Explore IANE, your hub for educational resources in nutrition education, offering top-tier educational resources and global collaboration. Navigation Log in Apply now IANE Steering Committee International Academy of Nutrition educators International Academy of Nutrition Educators (IANE) is a globally recognised virtual membership academy dedicated to advancing the field of nutrition education and research. Our mission is to provide professionals and organisations with the resources and support they need to develop and deliver high-quality nutrition education programmes while also evaluating their impact on healthcare practices. With members in over 80 countries, IANE is a vibrant community that brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a common passion for nutrition. We believe in the power of collaboration and knowledge-sharing to drive positive change in the field. As of 2026, the International Academy of Nutrition Educators (IANE) is managed by a collaborative leadership model that ensures strategic growth, international representation, and sustained impact across education, research, and practice. NNEdPro Global Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health (United Kingdom) is the Lead Managing and Hosting Partner, working with the below esteemed institutions: - Bern University of Applied Sciences (Academic and Practitioner Outreach Partner) - BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health (Supporting Partner) - Swiss Association for Cooperation on Food Education (Supporting Partner) These partnerships further strengthen our commitment to excellence and provide our members access to cutting-edge research and expertise. Through IANE, we aim to deliver evidence-based education and training in nutrition and health, ensuring that our members stay at the forefront of this dynamic field. We offer capacity-building programmes and mentoring opportunities that empower tomorrow's trainers and researchers in related areas. IANE was established in 2018 through collaboration between four founding partners whose combined expertise laid the foundation for its global platform. Their contributions from 2018 to 2025 were instrumental in shaping IANE’s professional standards, outreach, and credibility in nutrition education. - NNEdPro (United Kingdom) - Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior (United States) - Monash University (Australia) - BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health (United Kingdom) to learn more and apply Visit the IANE website CHECK OUT frequently asked questions What is the International Academy of Nutrition Educators (IANE)? IANE is a global membership network that provides mentoring, CPD and benchmarking opportunities for professionals interested in developing and delivering high quality nutrition education and evaluating its impact, particularly on healthcare practices. Membership is also well suited to those undertaking nutrition research in a related area. Through IANE, we aim to deliver evidence-based education and training in nutrition and health to promote the capacity building and mentoring of tomorrow’s trainers as well as researchers in related areas. With benefits such as mentoring sessions, webinars, journal clubs and forum discussions as well as the award of post-nominal letters for professional members and fellows, you will be equipped with all you need to be a successful nutrition educator. What is the aim of IANE? To develop, deliver and evaluate evidence-based education and training in nutrition and health. To promote the capacity building and mentoring of tomorrow’s trainers, particularly in nutrition and medical/healthcare education. Why do we have a membership scheme? NNEdPro has spent the last decade developing its think-tank, training academy and creating a strong knowledge network and network of interest. Looking forward, NNEdPro aims to leverage this momentum further, engage deeper and provide value-added benefits for members in line with the vision and mission of NNEdPro, while building a stronger global community by developing collaborations with SNEB (United States), Monash University (Australia) and BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. What are the requirements? Please check out all requirements and benefits here. Any further questions? Please email us at info@iane.online