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Author: Dr Moniba Arshad Reviewed by: Sarah Armes, Sarah Anderson, Prof Sumantra (Shumone) Ray As a junior doctor, transitioning from the fast-paced environment of a hospital to the aromatic atmosphere of a Mobile Teaching Kitchen (MTK) workshop in Arbroath was an "eye-opener." While we often treat the symptoms of metabolic disease in the clinic, the MTK initiative is where the real "preventative medicine" happens—right in the heart of the community. The Three-Day Culinary Journey In Arbroath, I witnessed the power of "bringing nutrition to the doorstep" through three distinct cultural templates: The Mexican Template: Showcasing vibrant, plant-forward dishes that prove healthy eating doesn't have to be bland. The Scottish Template: Reimagining local, familiar ingredients to create nutrient-dense meals that feel like home. The Indian Template: Utilising aromatic spices and legumes to demonstrate how affordable options can become powerful tools for health. Bridging the Gap: From Clinic to Kitchen In my daily practice, I see the heavy toll of metabolic diseases like Type 2 Diabetes and hypertension on hospital resources. Often, patients know they "should" eat better, but they lack the practical skills to do so on a budget or with limited time. At the MTK workshops, I saw a side of healthcare that clinicians struggle to deal with. Helping the team and prepping ingredients alongside community members, I realised this initiative is where ‘Food as Prevention’ is used to fight those diseases. Turning Personal Adversity into Community Advocacy What moved me most was my time spent talking to the MTK champions. I was truly amazed by their profound, personal desire to heal their own community. These aren't just champions, but many are individuals who have navigated their own health challenges and metabolic struggles in the past. Hearing how they turned their personal health battles into a mission to help others was a depiction of empathy. They aren’t just teaching recipes; they are sharing a survival guide for a healthier life based on their experiences. Their passion proved to me that the most effective "medicine" often comes from a local who understands exactly what it feels like to struggle with their health. The Impact: Beyond the Plate The MTK initiative does more than just teach recipes; it builds community adaptability to never-ending health challenges. My conversations with attendees revealed: A Shift in Mindset: Food was no longer just fuel or a source of stress, but a form of prevention. Increased Awareness: Attendees left with the confidence to make "healthy swaps" in their own kitchens. Decreased Hospital Burden: By empowering people to manage their health through diet, we are actively preventing the complications that lead to hospital admissions. Every healthy meal prepared at home is a step toward reducing the strain on our overstretched Healthcare System. A Vision for the Future This workshop strengthened my belief that nutrition education is as vital as any prescription I write. The MTK model, with its See One, Do One, Teach One (SODOTO) approach, creates a ripple effect that starts in a community centre in Arbroath and ends with a healthier, more informed population. I left Arbroath not just as a doctor who treats disease, but as an advocate for a world where we have the tools to prevent it.

Author:  Gerald Cheruiyot  Reviewed by: Sarah Armes, Sarah Anderson and Sumantra (Shumone) Ray  UNDERSTANDING MASLD AND TREATMENT COMPLEXITY  Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously referred to as NAFLD (Non–alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease), is now estimated to affect more than one-third of adults worldwide ( https://www.nature.com/articles/s41572-025-00599-1 ). It is closely linked with overweight and obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.  As a result, many people living with MASLD are prescribed several medicines at the same time. These medicines may be needed to manage blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, or other health problems alongside liver disease. While medicines are an important part of care, managing many of them together can place a significant burden on daily life and wellbeing.  A recent systematic review of research published in  BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health  examined how common it was for individuals with MASLD to take multiple medicines at the same time and what this may mean for them.   HOW COMMON IS POLYPHARMACY IN MASLD?  The review examined six studies from the United States, Australia and Italy. Across these studies, between one quarter and almost nine out of ten adults with MASLD were taking multiple long-term medicines. This wide range reflects differences in healthcare systems and how polypharmacy was defined.  When the most comparable studies were combined, around eight in ten adults with MASLD were managing complex medication routines. In hospital and specialist care settings, people were often prescribed close to ten long-term medicines, highlighting how demanding treatment can become.    HOW TAKING MANY MEDICINES AFFECTS DAILY LIFE   For many people living with MASLD, taking several medicines each day can affect how they feel and function in everyday life. People managing multiple medicines often report feeling more tired, having less energy and finding it harder to carry out daily activities such as work, household tasks, and social life.  Ongoing symptoms linked to liver disease, such as persistent tiredness, poor sleep, and muscle cramps, are also more commonly reported by those taking many medicines. Over time, these symptoms can build up and make day-to-day life more challenging, particularly for people with more advanced forms of the condition.  In some cases, managing many medicines is linked to a higher chance of needing hospital care, especially among people with more severe liver disease. Hospital admissions can be disruptive and stressful, and may affect confidence, independence, and overall wellbeing.  Taking several medicines is more common among older adults and people living with more than one long-term condition, such as diabetes or heart disease. For some, this means juggling complex routines, dealing with side effects and feeling overwhelmed by treatment, especially when the benefits of each medicine are not always clear.  WHY MEDICINE BURDEN MATTERS IN MASLD  The liver plays a central role in breaking down medicines. In MASLD, this process can be altered, leading to medicines remaining in the body for longer or interacting with each other in unexpected ways. This can increase the risk of side effects and harmful drug interactions.  Managing many medicines can also make treatment routines harder to follow, increase fatigue and discomfort, and affect overall wellbeing. The review highlighted knowledge gaps, including limited information on whether all prescribed medicines are necessary or whether some could be safely reduced.  WHAT THIS MEANS FOR CARE AND SUPPORT  Regular medication reviews are an important part of care for people living with MASLD. Working with healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists, and dietitians, can help ensure medicines remain appropriate, effective, and as simple as possible.  Non-drug approaches are also central to MASLD management. Strong evidence shows that changes in diet, physical activity, and sustained weight loss can improve liver health and metabolic conditions. In some cases, these improvements may reduce the need for certain medicines. Nutrition-focused support, therefore, plays a key role in improving health while helping to minimise unnecessary medication burden.  LOOKING AHEAD  As MASLD becomes more common worldwide, managing multiple medicines will remain a growing challenge. Future research should explore how medicine use changes over time, identify which medicines provide the greatest benefit and assess safe ways to reduce medication burden alongside nutrition and lifestyle support.  Improving care in MASLD should involve not only the introduction of additional treatments (when needed and appropriate), but also the optimisation of existing therapies, support for sustainable lifestyle changes, and a focus on interventions that enhance long-term quality of life.  KEY TAKEAWAYS   Many people living with MASLD take several long-term medicines.  Taking many medicines can affect energy levels, daily activities and wellbeing.  Managing complex medication routines may increase the risk of side effects and hospital admissions.  Regular medication reviews help ensure medicines remain necessary and safe.  Diet, physical activity and weight management play a central role in improving health and may reduce reliance on medicines.  References  BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health (2025).  Polypharmacy in adults with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis . Volume 8, Issue 2, Article 677.  Available at:  https://nutrition.bmj.com/content/8/2/677   In November 2024, NNEdPro presented a summary of current understanding of MASLD and lifestyle factors with talks by key researchers in this area. Read more about it here .

Author: Priyanka Kotak Reviewed and edited by: Sumantra (Shumone) Ray and Sarah Anderson   The morning of 13th December was dedicated to research dissemination and youth engagement at the 11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition & Health . Hosted at St Leonards School in St Andrews, the setting reflected the Summit’s commitment to education, early leadership, and intergenerational dialogue, reinforcing the role of both emerging research and youth voices in shaping future food and nutrition systems. This final morning brought together two complementary strands of the Summit’s mission. The announcement of the BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health  Scientific Poster Competition results highlighted the strength and diversity of current nutrition research, while NNEdPro’s first Global Youth Essay Competition created space for young people to critically engage with global food, nutrition, and planetary health challenges. Together, these sessions underscored the importance of knowledge exchange, capacity building, and empowering the next generation as active contributors to policy-relevant dialogue. Deputy Headmaster Will Gainsford opened the session, welcoming participants and setting the tone for a morning centred on curiosity, critical thinking, and youth-led ideas. Research Dissemination: Abstract and Poster Competition The day began by celebrating today’s nutrition innovators, as the results of the BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health  Scientific Poster Competition were announced. This year’s competition received a record number of submissions, showcasing cutting-edge research shaping contemporary food and nutrition science and offering inspiration for the many directions in which the field continues to evolve. The diversity of topics spanned clinical and precision nutrition, public health nutrition, nutrition education, food systems, and sustainability. All accepted abstracts will be published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health , supporting global knowledge sharing across the nutrition community.   2025 Abstract Winners  Winner   The effect of flexitarian, time-restricted eating on body composition in young men without obesity: a factorial randomised controlled trial (The FlexiFast® Study)   Marta Lonnie, Lidia Wadolowska, Graham Horgan, Alexandra M. Johnstone  Runner-up   True Cost Accounting for Food (TCAF): Tool or Trap for Just Food System Transformation?   Rolf Arnold, Agathe Crosnier, Kate Dassesse, Emilia Schmitt, Evelyn Markoni, Laurence Jeangros, Franziska Götze, Theresa Tribaldos  Second runner-up   Daily potato consumption increases parasympathetic activity, assessed by 24‑hour heart rate variability, in healthy adults: results from the STARCHy randomised controlled trial   Anya R. Klarner, Sarah E. Berry, Wendy L. Hall     View all abstracts  here .    Youth Essay Competition    After three days of Summit proceedings focused on experts working across food and nutrition, this session shifted attention to the voices of young people internationally who will help shape the future of the field. Centred on the theme  Youth as Agents of Change: Fresh Perspectives and Solutions on Global Food and Nutrition Challenges , NNedPro’s first Global Youth Essay Competition was open to young people aged 13 to 19, and invited them to engage with real-world issues via structured topics across three broad themes:  Food and Nutrition Policy ;  From Human to Planetary Health ; and  Nutrition and Health .    Junior essays most frequently explored the  nutrition and health  theme, focusing on how everyday food environments, education, and behavioural factors influence wellbeing. Many demonstrated a strong ability to connect campaign ideas to their own lived experience, often grounding global nutrition challenges and solutions in school or community contexts. In contrast, senior essays largely focused on  food and nutrition policy , demonstrating a more advanced understanding of the broader dynamics shaping evolving food systems.    2025 Youth Essay Competition Winners  Junior Category (Ages 13 to 15)   Winner:  Rose Howison   Runner-up:  Utkarsh Gupta   Joint second runners-up:  Eva Sampson and Lennja Bowels   Senior Category (Ages 16 to 19)   Joint winners:  Maryam Bahzad and Natalie Tha   Runner-up:  Adit Mital   Joint second runners-up:  Chidera Chioma and Ginny R Hathaway      Finalists were also invited to present their essays (either in-person or online), condensing their work into three-minute presentations. Translating substantial research into such a concise format is no small task, yet it is a vital skill to develop for a future in science - ideas that cannot be communicated clearly are difficult to advocate for or implement.     Presentations were followed by a judging panel discussion marked by optimism and a shared recognition of the quality of submissions across both age groups. What stood out was participants’ capacity to use statistics and conduct research to support their arguments, alongside a clear understanding of the relationship between macro-level food systems and policy and micro-level action in communities and schools. The competition structure encouraged students not only to identify problems, but to articulate their own perspectives and propose practical, evidence-informed solutions.  Notably, some finalists even reflected on how the process of writing their essay prompted real-world action, for example, investigating food waste in their own school environment, illustrating the tangible impact of reflective, research-based learning that engaging in this competition offered. Further, these essays demanded interdisciplinary thinking: the broad topics enabled students to draw connections between biological science and social science to create change – a skill that might not be expected given that subjects are typically taught discretely in schools, yet participants managed to make these links impressively well.     Writing an essay of this nature and subsequently presenting it orally requires critical engagement with evidence, the synthesis of complex ideas, as well as confidence and conviction in proposing solutions. These skills are essential not only for producing rigorous academic work but also for putting the interventions discussed in their essays into practice. As someone who has only recently completed postgraduate study, it is encouraging to see school-age students already demonstrating such strong research, analytical, and communication skills.    Presenters of the Day   Junior Category – In person:   Rose Howison   Senior Category – In person:   Ginny R. Hathaway   Junior Category – Virtual:   Utkarsh Gupta   Senior Category – Virtual:   Maryam Bahzad     View the finalists’ essays  here .    Closing Remarks – The Importance of Youth Action    The session closed with  Inspiring Tomorrow’s Thinkers , a talk by Dr Patrick Cortbaoui, Director of the Institute for Global Food Security at McGill University. He highlighted the demographic reality that young people already constitute the majority in many regions, yet food systems are too often shaped without their voices. As those who will live longest with the consequences of today’s decisions, from food insecurity to biodiversity loss, young people must be more than passive recipients of inherited challenges, but rather, co-owners of the solutions.    This Global Youth Essay Competition explicitly demonstrated that generational continuity is fundamental to building sustainable, future-proof food systems. Hosting an education-focused competition within a school created space for young people to research, innovate, and articulate their ideas. By doing so, it effectively handed the baton to the next generation and recognised the value that the youth can, and already bring to shaping solutions - evident in both the thoughtfulness of their essays and impassioned presentations.

Authors:  Priyanka Kotak, Gerald Cheruiyot, Ramya Rajaram, Sarah Armes  Reviewed and edited by: Sumantra (Shumone) Ray and Sarah Anderson   The  11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition & Health was held from 10th to 13th December 2025 in Dundee and St Andrews, Scotland, convening a global, interdisciplinary community in both in-person and hybrid formats. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the theme,  Target 2030: Food and Nutrition Policy - From Human to Planetary Health , adopted a dual focus on human and planetary health, recognising these as fundamentally interconnected.  The programme was underpinned by the understanding that food and nutrition act as an umbrella for a wide range of domains, including climate health, behavioural economics, and culinary education. The Summit built on and expanded the themes explored across satellite events held throughout 2025 in  Kuala Lumpur ,  Nairobi ,  Bern ,  Ulster , and  Belém , covering topics including precision nutrition, behavioural economics, and sustainability.   Reflecting this breadth, the Summit spanned over 30 hours of content across multiple mini symposia and featured contributions from more than 60 speakers. Discussions aimed to identify policy-sensitive, context-specific solutions that advance progress towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, while also addressing the global double burden of malnutrition, bringing regional expertise and perspectives into a shared global dialogue.  The Summit programme also extended beyond the main symposia to include dedicated academic and youth-focused activities held on the final day. These included a complementary abstract and poster competition , delivered in collaboration with BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health , alongside the Global Youth Essay Competition . Together, these initiatives provided platforms for both early-career researchers and emerging global youth voices to contribute to policy-relevant dialogue on food, nutrition, and planetary health.   DAY 1: 10th December - Half-Day Symposium | James Hutton Institute   The day's programme began at the James Hutton Institute, with registration an hour earlier to allow delegates early access to the auditorium and informal networking ahead of the opening sessions. The opening Plenary on  Democratising and Decolonising Nutrition  reflected on progress since 2024 and highlighted the importance of culturally informed, equity-driven approaches to shaping nutrition policy towards 2030.  A key session,  A Tale of Three Islands , showcased how context shapes policy and practice, with insights from  New Zealand  on cultural competency in health education,  Iceland  on integrating planetary health into national dietary approaches, and  Malta  on the role of localisation, food culture and innovation in improving population health.    The programme also featured a Mini Symposium in partnership with   Shiv Nadar University , emphasising culinary education, indigenous knowledge and community engagement as practical tools for strengthening nutrition outcomes.  Discussions concluded with the Policy Panel on   Nutrition Knowhow for All , which underscored the need for clear, accessible, evidence-based guidance and coordinated cross-sector action to improve public nutrition literacy.    The day closed with a welcome from the  Scottish Alliance for Food (SCAF)  and an Opening Reception at the James Hutton Institute, supported by Busara , fostering collaboration and exchange among participants. Together, these sessions set the cultural, equity and policy foundations for advancing food and nutrition systems towards  Target 2030 .  DAY 2: 11th December - Human Health Focus | Dundee Science Centre     Moving to the Dundee Science Centre, Day Two began with opening remarks that outlined the objectives of the Human Health focus, reinforcing the importance of integrated approaches that connect food systems, nutrition science, equity, and population health.      The first Mini Symposium of the day,  From Bern to Belém and Beyond , offered a global lens through reflections from Pre-Summit satellite events across Europe, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Discussions highlighted how local context shapes food and nutrition priorities, from behavioural approaches to food access in Nairobi, to culinary education and cultural translation of nutrition science in Bern and Biel. Insights from Kuala Lumpur emphasised systems-based approaches to noncommunicable disease prevention in ASEAN contexts, while reflections from Ulster explored advances in precision nutrition and their implications for clinical practice and equity. The session concluded with perspectives from India, outlining plans to extend the Summit’s momentum into sustained, evidence-informed policy engagement.     Attention then turned to food security, equity, and affordability, with Mini Symposium 3 examining how gender, food systems, and everyday food environments shape nutrition outcomes. Presentations drew attention to the ongoing nutrition gaps faced by women of reproductive age, highlighting the importance of linking nutrition support more closely with sexual and reproductive health services across the life course. Conversations then turned to protein transitions in food-insecure settings, where speakers reflected on the real-world challenge of balancing sustainability with affordability and cultural acceptability, particularly in low-resource and crisis contexts.     Building on this, Mini Symposium 4 focused on nutrition awareness, education, and behaviour change, highlighting how knowledge translates into action only when it meets people where they are. Speakers shared practical, community-embedded approaches from health kiosks in markets and conversations in hairdressing salons, to hands-on culinary education and school-linked learning, showing how everyday spaces can become sites for prevention and empowerment.     The focus then shifted from population-wide strategies to more targeted interventions in Mini Symposium 5, titled  "Population Health to Precision Nutrition Interventions ." Speakers addressed debates around dietary recommendations for hypertension and kidney disease, population strategies for scalable impact in low-resource settings, and emerging tools such as nutrition research registries and precision approaches using bioactive compounds. The session highlighted both the promise and the practical challenges of applying precision nutrition, while keeping equity and population relevance firmly in view.    The final Mini Symposium of the day focused on the intersection of science, innovation, and policy in shaping sustainable nutrition and health outcomes. Speakers explored how evidence can be translated into action, from responding to the double burden of malnutrition to aligning national priorities with global frameworks and advancing plant-forward, climate-resilient dietary approaches.     A collective summary and reflection session drew together insights from across the day, reinforcing the central message that human health must remain the anchor for food and nutrition policy as the Summit progressed. The programme then transitioned into the Gala Dinner and Confluence, where shared meals, cultural performances, and community engagement offered a living expression of the Summit’s values: connection, collaboration, and the integration of knowledge into practice.     DAY 3: 12th December - Human and Planetary Health Focus | Dundee Science Centre    Opening remarks set out the need for integrated approaches that align nutrition science, public health, environmental sustainability, and food systems governance. This was developed through discussion of EU food law, which highlighted the evolving regulatory landscape and the challenge of balancing food safety, food security, and sustainability amid climate pressures, geopolitical uncertainty, and shifting dietary patterns.     The first mini symposium, supported by  HEIGHTS , addressed transparency, education, and collaboration between industry and healthcare professionals, a topic of increasing relevance as nutrition science becomes more complex and commercially engaged. Presentations explored how structured and ethically governed industry–academic partnerships can support innovation while maintaining scientific integrity and public trust. Evidence on healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding nutrition and supplementation underscored the need for targeted, evidence-based educational resources and clearer frameworks for engagement. Collectively, these sessions reinforced the importance of structured collaboration to translate research into practice without compromising professional independence.    Sessions delivered with the  University of Parma  and the  ONFOODS Consortium  focused on population-specific and life-course approaches to healthy and sustainable diets. Case studies demonstrated how locally embedded initiatives, spanning childhood nutrition, university food environments, pregnancy-specific dietary guidance, and diet optimisation strategies, can simultaneously support health outcomes and environmental goals. These examples demonstrated the value of locally embedded, context-sensitive interventions grounded in scientific evidence and cultural relevance.    The focus then shifted to precision nutrition and data science, highlighting advances in personalised approaches to cardiometabolic and cognitive health. Speakers explored the application of risk prediction models, dietary pattern analysis, and artificial intelligence, including large language models, to improve cardiometabolic health outcomes. Discussions also acknowledged the practical and ethical issues related to data use, governance, and equity as these approaches are increasingly applied in research and practice.     Afternoon sessions explored sustainable food systems and climate action, focusing on the economic and social implications of dietary change. Topics included the potential of climate finance, carbon markets, and agri-food innovation to support more equitable and resilient food systems, particularly in low- and middle-income contexts. The role of locally adapted crops and nutrient-dense food systems was highlighted as central to addressing both environmental sustainability and the rising burden of noncommunicable diseases.    The final mini symposium underscored the importance of traditional and indigenous crops and knowledge systems in strengthening food security and dietary diversity. Presentations on millets, halophytes, and seasonal food systems highlighted their potential contribution to sustainable diets, biodiversity, and local economies. The closing keynote drew these strands together, proposing a pathway toward healthy and sustainable diets that deliver concurrent benefits for human health, environmental protection, social equity, and economic resilience.  DAY 4: 13th December – Abstracts and Global Youth Engagement | St Leonards School The final day of the Summit was dedicated to research dissemination and youth engagement, reinforcing NNEdPro’s commitment to capacity building, inclusivity, and the next generation of global nutrition leaders. This included the abstract and poster competition , delivered in collaboration with BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health , alongside the Global Youth Essay Competition . Together, these activities provided platforms for emerging researchers and young people to contribute to policy-relevant dialogue on food, nutrition, and planetary health. A detailed overview of both initiatives is available in a separate companion blog .   A Post-Summit Satellite Event was held at the University of St Andrews on the afternoon of 13 December, coinciding with the official launch of the Global Nutrition Observatory for Medical Nutrition Education (GNOME) . CONCLUSION    The 11th International Summit went beyond a conventional scientific “conference”, bringing together a comprehensive array of people working across the broad landscape of nutrition, including researchers, practitioners, and educators. The event created a space for shared learning and consensus-building on actionable strategies for food, nutrition, and health systems. Most significantly, it emphasised that while nutrition science is essential, it is food itself that is at the heart of improving human and planetary health.  For the first time at a NNEdPro Summit, chefs were championed, highlighting their vital role in shaping what people eat and creating environments that support healthier, more sustainable choices. The Summit incorporated a culinary masterclass and a Tartan Gala Dinner, cooked by the East of Scotland  Mobile Teaching Kitchen   champions, which integrated nutrition science with Scottish culture and heritage. Both provided tangible demonstrations of how the ideas about cultural connection and community engagement discussed throughout the Summit can be translated into practice, and how hands-on, practice-oriented approaches complement traditional evidence translation.    Participants and speakers collectively explored actionable pathways towards Target 2030, reinforcing that meaningful progress relies on collaboration, consensus-building, and a commitment to translating dialogue into policy and practice. The connections and insights generated in Dundee offer a shared foundation for continued global action, supporting healthier, more sustainable, and equitable food systems for people and the planet. The Summit also provided a window into how the global food and nutrition landscape is evolving, offering insights that will help shape the 12th International Summit :  Human Intelligence, Artificial Intelligence, and Global Challenges .  The full Summit programme can be found  here . View the Photo Gallery .  Read the blog on the Global Youth Essay Competition .

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.

Author: Gerald Cheruiyot Reviewed by: Sarah Armes and Sarah Anderson For many adults, drinking milk can result in discomfort, bloating, or other symptoms of lactose intolerance. In contrast, individuals who consume dairy without difficulty are likely to possess a genetic trait known as lactase persistence. Growing scientific evidence suggests that this ability may be associated with a small but measurable difference in body weight.  A large meta-analysis published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health synthesised evidence from 26 studies to investigate whether genetic differences in lactose digestion are linked to obesity, metabolic health, and milk consumption. The findings indicate a modest but noteworthy association, particularly among adults.  What the Research Revealed  The analysis showed that adults with lactase persistence had a modestly higher average body mass index, approximately 0.22 kg/m2 greater than those without this trait. Although small, this difference was associated with a 27% higher likelihood of being overweight or obese.  Adults who can digest lactose also consumed more milk, averaging around 41 grams per day, equivalent to roughly one-third of a cup. This pattern suggests that higher milk intake, and the additional energy it provides, may partly explain the observed association.  In contrast, no clear association was observed in children, although evidence in younger age groups was limited. The analysis also found no strong link between lactase persistence and metabolic syndrome, which includes risk factors such as raised blood pressure, impaired glucose regulation and abnormal lipid levels.  Why This Association May Exist  The link between lactase persistence and body weight is likely to reflect a combination of behavioural and biological influences. Individuals who do not experience digestive discomfort are more inclined to include milk regularly in their diets, which may lead to higher overall energy intake. Beyond dietary behaviour, emerging evidence suggests that genetic variation in the lactase gene may influence gut microbiota composition and circulating metabolites, with potential effects on energy regulation and fat storage.  It is also important to recognise that the genetic variant most examined in these studies is predominantly found in populations of European ancestry. Other populations around the world have developed different genetic adaptations related to milk digestion, meaning the findings may not be directly transferable across all ethnic groups.  Should You Drink Less Milk  For most people, the answer is no. Dairy products remain an important source of key nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D and high-quality protein. A substantial body of research links moderate dairy consumption with benefits such as improved bone health, better blood pressure control and a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases.  Rather than avoiding milk, the findings emphasise the importance of mindful consumption. For individuals who tolerate dairy well, being aware of portion sizes and overall dietary balance may be beneficial. Body weight is influenced by multiple interacting factors, including physical activity levels, sleep patterns, stress, and overall diet quality, rather than by a single food or genetic trait.  The Bigger Picture: Personalised Nutrition   This research contributes to the expanding field of nutrigenetics, which examines how genetic variation shapes individual responses to food. Although dietary advice can be tailored to lactose digestion, genetics is not yet part of routine practice. Studies such as this reinforce the idea that nutritional responses vary between individuals.  Improved understanding of these genetic interactions may, over time, support more personalised dietary guidance and inform more targeted public health strategies.  Final Thoughts  For individuals who enjoy milk without experiencing digestive symptoms, there is no clear reason to eliminate it from the diet. Instead, these findings serve as a reminder to consider overall dietary patterns and portion awareness. Health is ultimately shaped by balance, and greater awareness of how the body responds to food, whether informed by genetics or personal experience, can support more informed and sustainable choices.  Whether your preference is dairy, lactose-free alternatives or other nutrient-rich foods, the overarching goal remains the same: to nourish the body thoughtfully and enjoy food as part of a balanced lifestyle.  Method   ChatGPT was used to section the topics in this blog and clean up grammar.  References   https://nutrition.bmj.com/content/early/2026/01/05/bmjnph-2025-001254

Authors:  Gerald Cheruiyot & Wanja Nyaga Reviewed by: Sarah Anderson & Professor Shumone Ray The Nairobi Satellite Event on Strengthening Food Systems, Nutrition & Health: Through Availability and Access addressed one of the most urgent global challenges — the persistent inequity in access to safe, affordable, and nutritious food. Despite significant advances in agricultural production, millions still face barriers driven by systemic, behavioural, and contextual factors. By convening experts across nutrition science and behavioural economics, NNEdPro Global Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health and Busara Global aimed to translate innovative research into scalable, locally relevant strategies that strengthen food systems and advance their core mission: achieving nutrition security through education, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration. Integrating Local Knowledge into Global Nutrition Policy The event began by highlighting the importance of systemic thinking. Professor Sumantra Ray (NNEdPro) emphasised that resilient systems in global health policy depend on integrating nutrition education. Food system stability goes beyond production; it demands consistent, equitable access to diverse, nutritious diets, especially during disruptions. Following this, Juhi Jain (Busara) critically addressed the constraints of applying research derived from WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialised, Rich, and Democratic) contexts to diverse global populations. She argued persuasively that for any intervention to achieve sustained impact and scalability, it must be meticulously grounded in an empirical understanding of local social, cultural, and economic determinants, thereby maximising relevance and implementation efficacy. Behavioural Science: Translating Knowledge into Dietary Action A core focus was placed on the translational potential of behavioural science in improving dietary quality. Wanja Nyaga (NNEdPro) investigated the crucial need for behavioural change interventions specifically designed to shift negative consumer perceptions surrounding traditional foods. These indigenous crops are often superior in terms of micronutrient profiles and environmental adaptation, yet face persistent marginalisation. The proposed intervention strategy involves leveraging behavioural insights to reframe these foods as economically viable and culturally desirable choices, thereby addressing both food availability and acceptance. Complementing this, Wairimu Muthike (Busara) outlined a structured behavioural design approach to enhance food system resilience through the Bridging of Knowledge Systems. This approach advocates for the systematic integration of formal scientific evidence with the invaluable knowledge pools of Indigenous and local communities. By applying analytical and design principles, researchers can construct policy and communication frameworks that are simultaneously evidence-based and culturally resonant, significantly enhancing the efficacy of access interventions. Actionable Interventions: Waste Mitigation and Cross-Sectoral Equity The final segment transitioned into highly translational insights applicable at the market level. Fadila Jumare (Busara) presented data on the effectiveness of behavioural approaches to food waste prevention in traditional markets. She demonstrated that targeted, empirical 'nudges', such as optimising product display ergonomics, introducing clear informational prompts, or training vendors on loss mitigation techniques, can lead to quantifiable reductions in food loss. This directly translates into an improved effective food supply and enhanced market efficiency. Bringing the discussion to a close, Dr Kathy Martyn (Brighton University) employed the powerful ‘Planting Seeds’ framework. This highlights the need for deep-rooted, collaborative, and sustainable engagement across all sectors to ensure equitable access to good food. The argument centred on the ethical and practical imperatives for academia, policymakers, civil society, and the private sector to pool resources and expertise, ensuring that nutritional security is achieved globally as a fundamental right.  A Unified, Evidence-Based Pathway The Nairobi Satellite Event unequivocally demonstrated that meaningful progress in global food systems requires moving past traditional silos. It mandates a sophisticated, unified model that strategically merges the scientific rigour of nutritional security (NNEdPro) with the deep human insights afforded by behavioural economics (Busara). This robust, context-sensitive framework establishes a clear and actionable trajectory for building truly resilient food systems that secure health and equitable dietary access for populations across the globe. The event concluded with closing remarks that looked forward to exploring the potent synergies between Busara’s expertise in behavioural science in the Global South and NNEdPro’s mission in nutrition education and research. This partnership itself stands as a model for the kind of cross-sectoral partnership the event championed. In summary, the Nairobi Satellite Event did not offer a single silver bullet. Instead, it provided a sophisticated and interconnected toolkit. The interactive discussions that followed generated valuable insights across several domains: Equity must remain central. Structural disparities: geographical, economic, and gender-based, continue to shape who can benefit from improvements in availability and access. Data-driven decisions are essential for designing interventions that are responsive to local conditions and capable of evolving as contexts change. Community co-design strengthens the relevance and sustainability of interventions by grounding them in lived experience. Intersectoral coordination ensures that food system reforms address the breadth of challenges affecting nutrition security. Scalability and feasibility should underpin innovation, ensuring that tools and strategies can be realistically implemented within existing resource and infrastructure constraints. By viewing availability and access through this multifaceted lens, the event made a significant contribution to the global dialogue, reminding us that the journey to a nourished world is as much about human behaviour as it is about agricultural yield.

Author: Gerald Cheruiyot Reviewer: Matheus Abrantes The nexus between nutritional science and clinical practice is undergoing unprecedented acceleration. As BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health (BMJ NPH)  continues to redefine the integration of lifestyle medicine within global healthcare systems, the journal has reached a pivotal milestone. We are pleased to announce a comprehensive evolution of the journal's Editorial Leadership and Management Board. This intentional transition honours our founding legacy while activating a strategic roadmap towards global leadership by our 10th anniversary in 2028. Honouring Our Founding Legacy Institutional excellence is built upon a foundation of academic rigour, ethical integrity, and visionary leadership. As we begin this new chapter, we extend our sincere gratitude to the individuals who transformed an ambitious concept into a globally recognised scientific journal. Professor Sumantra Ray , Co-Founder of the journal, will continue to provide strategic oversight as Co-Chair of the Management Board along with Kathleen Lyons . We also acknowledge Professor Martin Kohlmeier , who transitions into the role of Emeritus and Consulting Editor. Professor Kohlmeier's steadfast commitment to scientific excellence during the journal's formative years established the rigorous standards that continue to define every BMJ NPH  publication. We fully wish to recognise the contributions of Prof Martin Kohlmeier, who was the first Editor in Chief of BMJ NPH. His commitment to establishing the new journal, his work in its development, and the increase in Impact factor are evident. Under Martin's guidance, BMJ NPH has been recognised for publishing evidence-based work and for its status as a trusted journal. We are delighted that Martin's support for the journal continues through his now Honorary Emeritus position and as Consulting Editor. — Pauline Douglas, NNEdPro Co-Chair The New Vanguard: Co-Editors-in-Chief We are delighted to announce the appointment of our new Co-Editors-in-Chief, marking the beginning of an era defined by collaborative and multidisciplinary leadership. This dual leadership model reflects the evolving complexity of nutrition science, integrating clinical expertise with a global public health perspective. Dr Kathy Martyn (UK)  — RN, RNutr, BSc, BEd, MSc (Nutritional Medicine), PhD A recognised leader in clinical nutrition and healthcare education, Dr Martyn brings extensive experience in translating research evidence into frontline clinical practice. Dr Jimmy Louie (Australia)  — AdvAPD, BSc, MNutrDiet, PhD Dr Louie strengthens the journal's global reach, contributing expertise in public health nutrition and metabolic science across diverse healthcare systems. Commenting on this landmark appointment, Professor Sumantra Ray, representing the collective vision of the journal's founding partners and global academic network, stated: "On behalf of the NNEdPro Global Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health and its partner initiatives, including the International Academy of Nutrition Educators, I am delighted to welcome the new Co-Editors-in-Chief of our official journal, BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. We are privileged to appoint two exceptionally high-calibre, clinically qualified nutrition scientists who will build upon the strong foundation established by the inaugural Editor-in-Chief, Dr Martin Kohlmeier. The new Co-Editors-in-Chief bring a renewed commitment to inclusivity in nutrition research and to the democratisation of nutrition knowledge across all sectors of society. I am confident that this transition will propel BMJ NPH to new heights as a global beacon for evidence-informed policy and practice." Strengthening the Core: Operational and Editorial Synergy To support this refreshed leadership, we have strengthened both the Management Board and the NNEdPro Virtual Core, the journal's strategic engine, ensuring operational excellence and the highest standards of editorial integrity. Our multidisciplinary Virtual Core management team includes Professor Pauline Douglas , Dr Celia Laur , Dr Samyyia Ashraf , Matheus Abrantes , Dr Alan Flanagan, Dr Mei Yen Chan ,  Dr Rajna Golubic and Shane McAuliffe . In addition, Gerald Cheruiyot  now leads the journal's digital engagement and social media strategy, amplifying the reach and impact of BMJ NPH  across clinical, policy and public audiences. Mission 2028: Achieving Global Leadership Under this renewed leadership, BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health  will launch a refreshed strategic direction from Spring 2026. The journal’s ambition is clear: to become the leading global journal in nutrition and prevention ahead of our decennial milestone in 2028. "This transition marks a coming-of-age journal. With a refreshed core and a clear strategic vision, we have two years to achieve world-leading status ahead of our 10th anniversary."   — Management Board Statement, 2026 To support this accelerated trajectory, we are intensifying our commitment to peer-review excellence. Members of the Virtual Core have committed to undertaking two to four high-level peer reviews annually, ensuring BMJ NPH  remains a rapid-response, high-integrity platform for critical advances in nutrition science. All reviewers will continue to receive formal recognition on the BMJ website in acknowledgement of their essential contribution to the scientific record. The Road Ahead The next generation of BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health  has arrived. Moving forward, the journal will focus on three strategic pillars: Implementation Science  - advancing an understanding of how nutrition interventions perform at scale in real-world clinical and community settings. Global Health Equity  - expanding representation of diverse populations, contexts and researchers worldwide. The Democratisation of Nutrition Knowledge  - ensuring evidence-informed policy and practice are accessible across all regions and sectors. The two-year sprint to 2028 begins now. We invite our global community of authors, reviewers and readers to join us in shaping the future of evidence-informed global health.

By Jadh Azulay Last November, I had the privilege of moderating the Belém Satellite Event on Food Security & Sustainability, ahead of the 11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition & Health. In the heart of the Amazon, where biodiversity, culture, and climate pressures converged with COP30, the discussions revealed how global nutrition challenges intersect with local realities, and how this region can point us toward new solutions. Professor Sumantra Ray opened with a clear warning: the world must move beyond simply delivering calories. Countries now face overlapping burdens of malnutrition, from undernutrition and micronutrient gaps to rising obesity and diet-related diseases. Improving diet quality, securing sustainable financing, and strengthening food systems against climate and economic shocks emerged as urgent global priorities. These themes took on deeper meaning during the recent field visit to Combu Island near Belem.  Conversations with residents highlighted persistent challenges: high costs of accessing fresh food, weak infrastructure, irregular electricity, unsafe drinking water, and limited basic services. Yet they also underscored the resilience of communities whose livelihoods and identities remain deeply tied to the forest. Any solution must respect this connection and address the structural barriers of geography, logistics, and cultural adequacy. Innovation showcased at the event demonstrated paths forward. The TIGR2ESS program is developing climate-resilient crops and more sustainable rural systems. At the same time, the award-winning Mobile Teaching Kitchens empower marginalised women through culinary nutrition education and micro-enterprise, tackling food insecurity and breaking cycles of poverty from the ground up. In this context, Elenilma Barros and Rosilene Reis, both nutritionists from the Regional Council of Nutrition, brought the Amazon discussions to remind us that food security here is inseparable from environmental protection, cultural identity, and social justice. Remote geography, agroindustrial expansion, shifting diets, and high food prices continue to undermine access to healthy, culturally relevant foods, with over half of households in the Amazon facing food insecurity. Strengthening family farming, agroecology, community-based production, and logistics adapted to rivers and forest landscapes are essential steps, alongside policies that value traditional knowledge and ensure Indigenous and local communities lead the process. Education and foundational resources remain essential. María Verónica Flores-Bello stressed the integration of Sustainability Education into higher education and strengthening institutional nutrition education. Ester Feche highlighted the link between water security, public health, and the carbon footprint of local food production. Discussions also explored whether carbon markets could empower Indigenous communities sustainably, funding health education and regional food enterprises. The event closed with updates from the COP30 negotiations, reaffirming that meaningful progress depends on interdisciplinary collaboration and commitments that bridge global frameworks with the lived realities of the Amazon. From Belém to the world, the message was clear: solutions to international food and climate crises will require listening to, and learning from, the people who keep the forest standing. Check out all photos here .

Authors:  Mhairi Halbert, Denika Dabee, Kate Ruddy & Yaseen Ahammed.    Reviewed and edited by:  Ramya Rajaram, Shumone Ray.        The Agents of Change placement is designed to encourage medical students to recognise the role they can play in improving community health by engaging with third-sector organisations. By placing us within real community settings and asking us to learn with,  rather than simply  about,  local groups, the programme aims to strengthen our understanding of public health, social prescribing, health inequalities, and the broader social determinants that shape wellbeing.  During our seven-week Agents of Change placement with NNEdPro, we were not only allowed to observe community health initiatives but also to participate in them. As medical students, we are often taught about nutrition, behaviour change and health inequalities in abstract classroom terms; the Mobile Teaching Kitchen (MTK) allowed us to experience these concepts in action. Through in-person sessions, conversations with MTK community champions, and hands-on involvement in workshops, we began to understand how nutrition education becomes meaningful only when rooted in people’s lived realities.  Our time with the Mobile Teaching Kitchen Initiative (MTK), part of global NNEdPro Initiatives, offered a practical look at how community-led nutrition education can foster empowerment, connection and sustainable health practices. MTK’s mission of “democratising nutrition” bringing food education back to lived experience rather than distant expertise informed every session we attended. What follows is a collective reflection on what we saw, learned, and questioned: four perspectives shaped by the same community model, expressed through our individual experiences.    The Clinical Relevance of the MTK   Volunteering with the NNEdPro Global Institute’s Mobile Teaching Kitchen (MTK) has shown us how transformative practical nutrition education can be. The MTK model teaches people to prepare balanced, affordable meals while also explaining the nutritional value of everyday ingredients. Integrating this kind of hands-on support into clinical care, particularly through social prescribing, could offer patients help that goes far beyond standard dietary advice.  Many common conditions seen in primary care, including obesity, hypertension, and micronutrient deficiencies, are strongly shaped by diet. Yet clinicians often lack the time or resources to provide patients with the practical skills needed to change how they eat. Referring patients to MTK-style workshops through social prescribing could bridge this gap, giving them confidence, cooking skills, and nutrition literacy in a supportive environment. In the long term, this preventative approach has the potential to reduce both the burden and the cost of diet-related conditions on the National Health Service.  What makes the MTK especially valuable is its community-centred setting. Cooking and learning together help reduce isolation, build motivation, and support mental well-being. This matters greatly, given the documented links between obesity and psychological distress. The sense of community created in MTK sessions can serve as a meaningful complement to traditional medical treatment.   There is also clear potential for addressing health inequalities. MTKs can be taken directly into underprivileged neighbourhoods, making nutrition education more accessible and culturally relevant. In doing so, they help transfer the principles of the mobile kitchen into people’s own homes, supporting sustainable dietary change in familiar settings. Integrating MTK-inspired programmes into patient care pathways could therefore provide a cost-effective, empowering, and holistic way to improve health from the root, one shared meal, and one community at a time.   Engagement at the Mobile Teaching Kitchens   For many participants, cooking publicly can feel intimidating. The fear of “doing it wrong” or not knowing enough can hold people back from even trying. But the MTK environment melts that fear away. By inviting people to chop, stir, taste and ask questions, it shows that cooking is not a performance, it is a learning journey. The kitchen becomes a safe space where mistakes are simply part of the process, and curiosity is welcomed.  What makes the MTK especially powerful is how it turns abstract nutritional ideas into something tangible. Concepts like “balance,” “fibre,” or “healthy swaps” can feel distant when spoken about in clinical language. But seeing a balanced plate in front of you: equal portions of vegetables, proteins and carbohydrates cooked affordably and simply gives nutrition a form you can hold. Theory becomes edible; understanding becomes instinctive.  This is applied nutrition at its most meaningful. Participants don’t just learn what to eat, they understand why it matters and how to make it work within the reality of their own lives. Low-cost ingredients, familiar flavours and culturally sensitive recipes make healthy eating feel achievable rather than aspirational. Affordable dishes, cooked together and enjoyed together, quietly dismantle the idea that health requires privilege.  The magic of MTK engagement lies in this blend of practice and empowerment. As people cook side by side, they share stories, tips, memories and small victories. The kitchen becomes a community, and nutrition becomes a conversation rather than a lecture. You can see the change happen in real time: the quiet participant asking their first question, the hesitant cook taking the lead, the moment someone realises they can recreate the meal at home for their family.  Through this simple but profound model, MTKs remind us that meaningful nutritional change does not start with rules; it begins with confidence. It starts with someone showing you that you can  cook, that healthy food can be simple, cheap and delicious, and that balance is not a restriction but a guide. Engagement at MTKs is engagement with health itself: approachable, shared, and achievable.  Community Champions: The Heart of the MTK   The community champions are the stars of the show, the pinnacle of what modern nutritional education often lacks: reality. They represent the heart of the initiative, real people supporting their own communities through shared learning and connection. They bridge the gap between ‘food as medicine’ and ‘food as dinner’, embodying the MTK mission of translating the complex nutritional landscape into something practical, accessible, and fun.  Their peer-to-peer teaching offers a gentle, relatable introduction to healthier choices, empowering friends and family to see their own well-being reflected in their meals. They help widen the community’s comfort zone around staple dishes by showing that nutritious adaptations can fit naturally into daily life. Rather than presenting nutrition as a set of rules, they translate it into everyday conversations about what they enjoy cooking, what their families might try, and how they’ve experimented themselves. By demonstrating nourishing meals and sharing their own learning journey, nutrition “comes home,” allowing MTK’s mission of community empowerment to truly flourish.  In guiding their community through the minefield of modern nutrition and grounding it in real, achievable meals, the champions themselves build confidence. Their progression highlights how the MTK model creates space for people to grow into roles they may never have imagined for themselves. Confident champions shape the community: they create the warm, humorous and supportive environment that engages our sense of togetherness, a dose of health in itself, and one that will surely ripple through generations. The champions embodied the MTK principle that meaningful change often starts with trust, connection, and seeing someone “like you” giving it a go.   Working alongside the MTK community champions highlighted how meaningful change can begin in small, familiar spaces, not only through clinical authority, but through trust, humour and shared experience. Although not every aspect of the initiative aligned perfectly with our expectations, watching the champions support one another, grow in confidence and take ownership of health conversations demonstrated the real strength of community-led approaches.  The placement showed us that being an “agent of change” is not always about delivering expertise, but about recognising and nurturing the power that already exists within communities. Even our brief involvement gave us a deeper appreciation of the long-term, relationship-based work that organisations like NNEdPro continue to build, one interaction and one shared meal at a time.

Author: Sarah Anderson Edited by: Matheus Abrantes & Sumantra Ray As we approach the end of 2025, we are pleased to share a consolidated update capturing key developments over the last few months across the NNEdPro Global Institute and our nine partner initiatives. This period reflected sustained progress in our strategic programmes, deepening global engagement, and continued preparation for the 11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health taking place next month in Dundee and St Andrews, Scotland.   Throughout the second half of the year, we have focused on advancing the commitments made at our 10th International Summit by further strengthening cross-sector collaboration, expanding opportunities for applied learning, and driving forward our mission to accelerate evidence-informed nutrition action worldwide.   We extend our thanks to our members, collaborators, and supporters whose contributions underpin every step of this work. Your continued involvement enables us to maintain momentum as we close our 17th year and look ahead to the opportunities of 2026.   Read on for highlights from July to November, along with current activities and ways to engage as we begin the final chapter of this year. 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.   We have already completed five successful Satellite Events, with two more to come.   We are pleased to confirm that the Main Summit will take place across a series of outstanding venues in Dundee and St Andrews, each selected to reflect the Summit’s themes and the diversity of our programme:   10 December: James Hutton Institute 11 and 12 December: Dundee Science Centre 13 December: St Leonards School   We are particularly delighted to add Dundee Science Centre to the programme. As a hub for science engagement and innovation, it offers an ideal setting for discussions on human health, planetary health, and the future of nutrition research. The venue’s interactive environment will provide an inspiring backdrop for keynotes, panels, and networking.   Registrations remain open for the Main Summit (with limited in-person spaces available), the remaining Satellite Events, the Gala Dinner, and the hands-on Cooking Masterclass.   Do not miss the opportunity to be part of this global journey! 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 (hybrid) 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. Royal Society of Biology Approves Summit for 87 CPD Credits! We are pleased to share that this year's Summit has been formally approved by the Royal Society of Biology  for Continuing Professional Development.   Participants attending the full four-day programme may claim 87 CPD points, including those registered with the Royal Society of Biology’s CPD scheme.   This recognises the Summit as an event of significant professional value, supporting the development needs of attendees across disciplines. Successfully Completed Satellite Events Bern Satellite Event on Nutrition in Population Health 10th July 2025   A focused session with Bern University of Applied Science examining how nutrition research can inform population-level health strategies, with emphasis on equity and systems thinking. Biel/Bienne Culinary Masterclass 10th July 2025   A practical culinary masterclass showcasing sensory education and plant-forward menu innovation in the Swiss context. Kuala Lumpur Satellite Event: Nutrition, Disease Prevention & Systems Thinking 28th July 2025  This session featured an overview of NNEdPro’s two decades of work, insights from the MTK Initiative, and presentations spanning literacy-focused community projects, UNICEF’s draft nutrition competency framework for medical education, and new epidemiological and clinical perspectives on NCD prevention in Malaysia.   The programme also highlighted systems-thinking approaches linking nutrition and T2DM, with discussions paving the way for renewed collaboration and network activity across South-East Asia. Ulster Satellite Event on Precision Nutrition 5th November 2025  Hosted in Northern Ireland as a replacement for the annual NICHE symposium, this event examined emerging science and applied practice in precision nutrition. Nairobi Satellite Event on Strengthening Food Systems, Nutrition & Health: Through Availability and Access 11th November 2025 A high-level forum bringing together policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to discuss nutrition-sensitive strategies that strengthen food systems, improve availability and access, and support resilient, health-promoting environments. Upcoming Summit Events 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 the Dundee Science Centre Gala Tartan Dinner  on the evening of the 11th at Dundee and Angus College. Culinary Ecology Cooking Experience  on the evening of 12th at the Dundee International Women's Centre.   13 December: Global Youth Essay Competition & Festival of Ideas  at St Leonards School (St Andrews) - Deadline for essays has been extended to 30th November! This is a fantastic way to get your children involved in the conversation.   Note:  IANE members receive a 30% discount on Main Summit registration. Join IANE today  to claim your discount! Q3 TO EARLY Q4 HIGHLIGHTS Follow-up from the 10th International Summit (December 2024) Building on the momentum of the 10th International Summit  and carrying this work forward into 2025, the Forum for Democratising Food & Nutrition  has been established in partnership with Shiv Nadar University,  as a global hub for knowledge, advocacy, and capacity-building. As we prepare to launch the Forum’s digital hub and first-year initiatives, we are making a final call for contributions to our strategic crowdfunding campaign. Your support is vital to sustaining this bridge between the 2024 and 2025 Summits and ensuring that Summit commitments translate into long-term, measurable impact. The peer-reviewed proceedings  from the last year's 10th International Summit, held in India in December 2024, have been published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health , including all scientific discussions and 50 poster abstracts. View the Proceedings NNEdPro’s 2024 Summit commitments have been registered in the UN Global Nutrition Report’s Commitment Tracker . View the Report Engagement with the Italian Embassy in London   We were very pleased to have been invited to attend an event hosted by the Italian Embassy  in London on 13 November as part of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World. The programme explored themes central to NNEdPro’s mission, including the importance of accurate nutrition and health information and the need to counter misinformation through evidence-based science.   This engagement also strengthens our strategic alignment with the Embassy ahead of the 11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition & Health in December. We extend our thanks to the Embassy and Italian institutions for the invitation and for their continued efforts to promote the Mediterranean Diet and advance healthy, accessible nutrition for all. IANE Webinar Series  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.   In September, Ana Magnasco delivered a session on Sludges in the Out-of-Home Food Environment, examining ethical, behavioural, and policy dimensions alongside insights from the ChefChain case study. In October, Professor Meis Moukayed presented a focused webinar on Vitamin D and Women’s Reproductive Health, highlighting current evidence and implications for clinical and public health settings.   IANE webinars remain a cornerstone of our knowledge exchange efforts, bridging theory and practice across global regions. New Clinical Toolkit: Supporting Evidence-Based Nutrition Practice   Developed in collaboration with HEIGHTS, this new Clinical Toolkit provides healthcare professionals with a practical resource addressing key nutrients of concern within the UK population.   Drawing on evidence from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey and NNEdPro’s Nutrition and Supplementation Survey, the toolkit focuses on nutrients such as iron, vitamin D, folate, vitamin B12 and iodine, alongside additional micronutrients identified through Healthcare Professionals (HCPs) insight.   The resource is designed to strengthen everyday nutritional practice and support informed, evidence-based decision making in clinical settings. The toolkit is also accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for CPD (worth 3 credits).   Disclaimer: Biomarker cut-points referenced in this toolkit are based on UK guidance and may differ from international thresholds. Congratulations to Dr Rajna Golubić and Prof Pauline Douglas We are pleased to celebrate two of NNEdPro's directors on fantastic achievements. Dr Rajna Golubić on achieving specialist registration in Diabetes, Endocrinology and Internal Medicine with the General Medical Council, and on her appointment as Global Clinical Director for Endocrinology and Diabetes within Roche’s Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic division.   This international appointment reflects her outstanding expertise and offers a significant platform to advance late-phase clinical development and improve outcomes for people living with metabolic disorders. Edit the content in this column layout so people engage with your email. We are delighted to recognise Professor Pauline Douglas on receiving the Patricia Blackburn Award for Advancing Healthcare in Northern Ireland, with a primary citation from Ulster University and an additional acknowledgement of her longstanding contributions to NNEdPro.   This award reflects her sustained leadership in nutrition education, practice and impact across the region and beyond. Little Literacy Library Visit August 2025   A field visit to two Little Literacy Libraries in Kolkata marked this year’s Independence Day activities, supported through recent fundraising efforts led by NNEdPro colleagues and partners. The combined contributions will sustain the libraries for six months, enabling the provision of new textbooks and workbooks, essential room maintenance, librarian support, nutritious meals linked to attendance, and hygiene supplies for all children.   The team met with the children and heard firsthand about their aspirations, from future health professionals and teachers to artists and scientists, and supported peer learning sessions using pictorial literacy resources. Additional books and materials were distributed across both sites, with further resource purchases underway. RECENT BLOG POSTS 2nd October The Kitchen as an Embassy: A Proposed Model for Gastrodiplomacy 11th September   The Hidden Price of Food: Revealing the True Costs of Agrifood Systems   15th August   Plate to Planet: Why Cutting Food Waste is a Recipe for Change 12th August Nourishing Immunity: How Maternal and Infant Diets Can Help Prevent Food Allergies 5th August   The Future of Nutrition Research Methods and Effective Publishing Strategies 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.   👉 Submit or update your research today 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 .

Author:  Francesco Giurdanella  Reviewed and Edited by: Sarah Anderson and Prof Sumantra Ray The concept of gastrodiplomacy was defined in the early 2010s by Paul Rockower, in an article published in the Taiwanese journal Issues & Studies, where Rockower wrote: “Gastrodiplomacy is predicated on the notion that the easiest way to win hearts and minds is through the stomach.” Gastrodiplomacy has implications for multiple aspects of economies and international relations. Like many emerging concepts, gastrodiplomacy can be defined in various ways, but it is gaining global recognition.    In a practical sense, gastrodiplomacy is not only an effective negotiating tool but also a means of representing a country's heritage. Countries such as France, Thailand, Japan, Korea, India, and Italy have leveraged their cuisine as a tool of soft power, promoting their culture while supporting economic growth. Food can also facilitate decision-making, act as a gateway to cultural understanding, and foster deeper integration between peoples.     As expressed in a recent article by Johanna Mendelson Forman on the Foreign Policy website : “Dinners, and food in general, are used to celebrate complex diplomatic feats like the 1979 state dinner that Jimmy Carter hosted for Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin, marking the peace deal between their two countries. Ronald Reagan holds the record for hosting 59 state dinners. He used these occasions to showcase the power of American cuisine. A recent memoir by Tom Loftus, the U.S. ambassador to Norway during the Clinton administration, features a chapter discussing how important dinners and wine promotion were to his diplomatic work.”   Sharing a plate is both a political and a promotional gesture; ultimately, eating together carries political meaning. A great example of gastrodiplomacy is the Mobile Teaching Kitchen Initiative (MTK) , developed and curated by the NNEdPro Global Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health. The initiative reflects the very foundation of gastrodiplomacy: winning hearts and minds through the stomach.     Currently, the MTK features a diverse range of culturally tailored menu templates, organised to cover the largest possible number of regions represented. This model is embodied in the concept of gastrodiplomacy but enhanced by the representation of diverse menus and cultures, as well as the social, nutritional, and gender impacts of food.     The concept of the MTK initiative ultimately represents what we might define as a “kitchen embassy,” where the kitchen is transformed from a laboratory, where food is prepared and reworked, into a true embassy, where food not only represents a means of subsistence, but also a means of promoting and representing cultures that foster communion and the sharing of ideas, starting in the kitchen and ending at the table. The MTK team supported the 10th International Summit on Food, Nutrition, and Health, held in Kolkata, India, in December 2024, serving in-person delegates representing 35 countries.     This year, the Scottish MTK initiative will continue the tradition by serving as the catering team for the  11 th  International Summit ’s Gala Dinner, taking place in Dundee, Scotland, on 11 th  December 2025. The MTK model will showcase its nutritious foundations through menus specifically designed to connect cultures often considered worlds apart.   The MTK initiative is a great model of bottom-up gastrodiplomacy, in which the protagonists —namely, chefs— become ambassadors themselves, creating and facilitating relationships built around food. With this logic, the MTK case aims to inspire the concept of food, even as a grassroots political tool, to be more widespread and consolidated.     Food and nutrition straddle both the humanities and sciences. From a scientific perspective, eating with others can trigger the release of endorphins2. Additionally, the very act of chewing can trigger the release of serotonin, potentially improving mood. There are also social benefits to the camaraderie of eating and drinking with others, which contribute to the creation and promotion of a more harmonious intercultural understanding that links both science and society through food and culture.     Ultimately, gastrodiplomacy highlights the power of food as both a cultural bridge and a diplomatic tool. The Mobile Teaching Kitchen initiative demonstrates how cuisine can transcend borders, foster mutual understanding, and promote both health and harmony. As food continues to shape our social and political landscapes, models such as the MTK remind us that the kitchen can truly serve as an embassy that connects people through the universal language of food.  Method  ChatGPT was used for sectioning the topics in this blog and to clean up grammar.    References:    Spence, Charles, 2016, Gastrodiplomacy: Assessing the role of food in decision-making. Flavour, Vol. 5, BioMed Central, London, United Kingdom https://flavourjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13411-016-0050-8#Fn37   https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/03/07/trump-culinary-diplomacy-mar-a-lago/    https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/07/25/china-xi-jinping-war-dinner-economy/    https://cup.columbia.edu/book/gastronativism/9780231202077/    https://www.bonappetit.com/story/american-culinary-corps-trump-biden-diplomacy?srsltid=AfmBOooTfBcFELXEBbH8udo8d_FGHyXhlBNNB3iYWEyaQ57W8_WdSqbp    https://www.euronews.com/culture/2025/03/02/gastro-diplomacy-ukraines-soft-power-gambit-for-stomachs-hearts-and-minds    https://www.esteri.it/it/diplomazia-economica-e-politica-commerciale/diplomaziaeconomica/promozione-integrata-del-sistema/le-rassegne-tematiche/settimana-della-cucina-italiana/    https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1887847    https://www.economie.gouv.fr/actualites/une-strategie-nationale-pour-faire-rayonner-la-haute-gastronomie-francaise#