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Authors: Priyanka Kotak, Ramya Rajaram Reviewers: Sarah Anderson, Prof Sumantra (Shumone) Ray The Gala Tartan Dinner, held on 11th December at Dundee & Angus College, marked a memorable cultural highlight of the 11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health . Bringing together food, music, and craft, the evening unfolded as an East meets West celebration, where Scottish tradition met global influences in a shared and immersive experience. The atmosphere was one of both reflection and celebration, offering a space where culture, community, and conversation came together naturally.  Significantly, this Gala Dinner came almost two years after the Scottish MTK initiative began its journey. Following the programme’s launch, participants underwent training to become MTK Champions. The first workshop in this series had been held at Dundee & Angus College - the very venue of the Gala Dinner - making the evening a full circle moment moment for the initiative. It was these very Champions who prepared the delectable food at the heart of the Gala Dinner, with each plate reflecting their dedication, collaboration, and nearly two years of training.   The dishes drew from the Scottish, Indian, and Mexican MTK menus, reflecting the breadth of the initiative’s global adaptations. Each recipe was nutritionally mapped, reinforcing NNEdPro’s ongoing commitment to integrating health with culturally relevant and accessible food practices.  Guests served themselves from family-style dishes on each table, creating a participatory dining experience that encouraged connection. This shared approach to dining echoed the core ethos of the MTK model, bringing people together through food, while fostering dialogue, inclusivity, and a deeper engagement with nutrition in practice.   Weaving Culture Through Music and Craft  The evening began with the meditative sounds of Paul Wright, sitarist and teacher of Indian classical music, setting a calm and reflective tone. This was followed by Nikitah Rajput Ray, classical singer and contributor to the ideation of the MTK initiative, who performed selections from Rabindra Sangeet (Tagore songs), a tradition rooted in rich literary and musical heritage, known for its reflective and evocative compositions.  As guests were served their meals, Scottish bagpiper James Salmond moved through the room, his music creating a distinct yet seamless shift in atmosphere. The interplay of sound and setting added to the experience, allowing the music to become part of the shared space rather than a separate performance.  The evening also featured a choral performance by students from St Leonards School in St Andrews: Jennifer Niven, Lana McGuire, Arabella Hayes, and Nikitah Rajput Ray, whose carols brought a warm and festive quality to the gathering, reinforcing the sense of community that carried through the evening.    The evening’s entertainment concluded with  Purano Shei Diner Kotha , which is a Bengali adaptation of the Scottish song "Auld Lang Syne", flowing naturally into the familiar melody. This performance beautifully echoed the Indian classical music that opened the night while celebrating the blending of Scottish and Indian cultural heritage.  The Scottish MTK Tartan  A highlight of the evening was the creation of a bespoke tartan for the Scottish MTK initiative, designed by master tartan weaver Ashleigh Slater.   Ashleigh spoke of tartan as an expression of identity, heritage, and community, where each thread carries meaning, and the act of weaving becomes a way to preserve and honour tradition while bringing people together. The tartan was woven throughout the evening and presented at the close of the gala. It was later officially registered in January 2026. Together with the Scottish MTK initiative, it now holds a place within Scotland’s cultural heritage, representing collaboration, shared purpose, and the initiative’s evolving roots in Scotland.    Closing Reflections  The evening, in many ways, felt like a reminder of what sits at the centre of this work, not only the science or the structure of programmes, but the people, contexts, and cultures through which these ideas take shape. There was something in the way conversations unfolded, and in how different traditions came together without needing to be explained, that stayed with you.  This was reflected throughout the evening, in the food prepared and shared by the MTK Champions, in the conversations that gathered naturally around the table, and in the way music and craft were woven into the experience. The tartan, created over the course of the evening, and the performances that accompanied it, did not feel separate from the work, but closely connected to it.   The evening’s success reflected the individual achievement and the collective success of MTK in Scotland, showing how sustained training and community engagement can transform effort into lasting impact.  As the MTK initiative continues to take shape across different regions, these moments offer something important. They show how ideas move beyond concept and into practice, shaped by the communities they engage with. It is within this balance, between local context and shared learning, that the work continues to grow, adapting to each setting while remaining connected to a wider, collective purpose.  View NNEdPro's work in Scotland Learn more about the Scottish MTK

Author: Sarah Anderson Edited by: Professor Sumantra (Shumone) Ray What does progress in nutrition look like in practice? Often, it isn't a single breakthrough, but the steady build-up of collaboration, shared learning and action across different parts of the world.   In this edition of the Anna   Edesia  newsletter, we highlight some of the work shaping that progress across the NNEdPro network. From expanding projects led by our India team , to the growing role of the iKANN Nutrition Research Registry  in connecting researchers, and ongoing efforts to strengthen global medical nutrition education through the GNOME Initiative , this issue brings together a range of developments and opportunities to engage.     We also look ahead to upcoming Summit activities, Summer School opportunities, and ways to take a more active role in the network through Special Interest Groups and wider contributions.   Whether you are looking to collaborate, contribute or simply stay informed, we hope this edition gives you a clear sense of where NNEdPro is heading and how you can be part of it. Announcements GNOME Initiative & Fundraising The GNOME Initiative (Global Nutrition Observatory for Medical Nutrition Education)  is a growing global hub for evidence generation, knowledge sharing and capacity building in medical nutrition education. Building on the foundations of the NEPHELP  project, GNOME serves as an international reference point for understanding how nutrition is integrated into medical and health professional training worldwide.   In partnership with PAN International , the initiative brings together data, research and practical tools to support the translation of evidence into policy and action. Its work spans global surveys, regional reporting, Summit satellite events, academic publications and recognition programmes, all aimed at strengthening the role of nutrition within healthcare systems.   As GNOME continues to expand, it is now seeking additional donors and strategic partners  to support its next phase of development. Contributions will help to strengthen regional capacity, grow the global observatory and ensure the long-term sustainability of this work .   We encourage members, partners and organisations to support and share the initiative, whether through donations, partnerships or wider advocacy, as part of a collective effort to strengthen nutrition education and empower the healthcare workforce of the future. Special Interest Groups (SIGs) We are currently inviting expressions of interest for Co-Chair positions across two Special Interest Groups (SIGs) .   The Food, Mood and Mental Health  and the   Implementing Effective Interventions in Healthcare  SIGs are each in need of additional co-chairs.   These roles provide an opportunity to contribute to shaping thematic areas, fostering collaboration and supporting knowledge exchange within the network.   Members interested in taking on a leadership role are encouraged to apply by emailing admin.support@nnedpro.org.uk .   Please note, these voluntary  roles are only open to NNEdPro-IANE members. If you aren't a member and would like to become one, please get in contact. Global Nutrition Careers Hub (Launching Soon!) We will soon be launching a dedicated  Global Nutrition Careers Hub  on the NNEdPro and IANE websites, designed to connect professionals with opportunities  across nutrition, food systems and public health. The platform will feature roles from a range of organisations, including international agencies, universities, NGOs and research institutes, and will cover areas such as policy, research, clinical practice and food systems. Alongside job listings, selected roles will include brief expert commentary to provide additional insight into requirements and context. In its initial phase, listings will be shared widely to build visibility and engagement, with further opportunities for featured listings to follow. Organisations interested in advertising roles or learning more about the platform are encouraged to get in touch via   info@nnedpro.org.uk . iKANN Research Registry – Upcoming Changes The iKANN Research Registry  continues to serve as a global platform for sharing and connecting nutrition education research, implementation projects and ongoing studies.   As the registry grows, a new paid  access model will take effect from 1 July 2026 to support its sustainability, functionality, and long-term development.   Until then, the platform remains fully accessible, and we strongly encourage researchers, practitioners, and students to use this period to upload and share their work . This is a valuable opportunity to  increase visibility , connect  with potential collaborators and contribute  to the growing global evidence base. We particularly encourage MSc students and early career researchers to submit their projects.   From July, the updated structure will introduce different access tiers to meet a range of user needs: A basic access tier  will allow users to create a contributor profile and explore existing research within the registry. A professional tier will provide additional functionality, including the ability to upload and publish research, access collaboration opportunities and view detailed project summaries. Institutional access  will also be available, enabling organisations to create multiple contributor profiles and share research at scale.   This transition is designed to enhance the value of the registry by improving visibility, encouraging collaboration and supporting a more robust global evidence base in nutrition education. NNEdPro Honorary Presidential Officers & IANE Honorary Deans In March 2026, the NNEdPro Global Institute  and its International Academy of Nutrition Educators (IANE)  introduced new honorary presidential officers and deans to support its continued development and global engagement.   Prof Suzanne Piscopo  continues in her role as Honorary President of NNEdPro and took on additional responsibilities as Senior Dean of IANE, overseeing the Annual Awards and Fellowship elections.   Prof Tamara Bucher  was appointed Honorary Vice President of NNEdPro and Academic Dean of IANE, contributing to international engagement and leading the Academic CPD programme, with a focus on researchers and innovators.   Dr Melina Jampolis was appointed Honorary Vice President of NNEdPro and Clinical Dean of IANE, supporting ambassadorial activity, particularly in the United States, and leading the Clinical CPD programme for practitioners. Upcoming Events Summer School 2026 - Last chance to register! Final preparations are underway for the upcoming Summer School cohort, taking place from 23 to 24 April, and today is your final day to register!   Designed for students, early-career professionals and practitioners, the programme combines expert teaching with interactive discussion and practical case studies.   More details, including registration information, can be found here . Summit 2026 - Registrations now open! Registration is now open for the 12th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health , taking place from 23 to 25 November 2026 at the University of Malta  (hybrid participation available).   This year’s Summit is part of a wider, global series of satellite events running before and after the main meeting, creating multiple opportunities to engage across regions, disciplines and themes. These include the Global North and Global South Symposia, International Policy Dialogues, the International Awards Symposium, and additional thematic events focused on areas such as scientific advances, climate change and youth engagement.   Together, these events form a connected platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange and collaboration, bringing diverse perspectives into one shared conversation on food, nutrition and health.   The main Summit will bring this global engagement together, offering a dynamic programme of plenary sessions, technical discussions and collaborative exchanges focused on advancing practical, evidence-informed solutions across human and planetary health.   We encourage early registration to secure your place and to explore opportunities to engage across the wider Summit series. Recent Events MTK Seminar at The Rowett Institute, Aberdeen 24 March 2026   NNEdPro delivered a seminar at The Rowett Institute  marking two years of the Mobile Teaching Kitchen International  (MTKi) Initiative in the UK.   Presented by Professor Sumantra Ray, the session explored the evolution of the MTK model from its origins in India to its growing impact in the East of Scotland, with additional insights from Belfast, East London, Mexico and the United States.   The seminar highlighted how integrated nutrition education, culinary skills and community engagement can support efforts to address food insecurity and malnutrition, alongside updates on the Scottish programme’s continued development. 1st International Water Seminar, São Paulo 23 March 2026   Nikitah Ray and Francesco Giurdanella represented the NNEdPro Youth Ambassadors Club  at the 1st International Water Seminar in São Paulo, contributing to global discussions on water preservation and sustainability.   The session focused on the critical links between water, food systems, nutrition and health, emphasising the need for integrated approaches that connect environmental sustainability with nutrition policy and practice.   The event reinforced the importance of cross-sector collaboration in building more resilient and healthy communities. Dundee Science Festival 19–22 February 2026 NNEdPro participated in the Dundee Science Festival with a dedicated Mobile Teaching Kitchen (MTK) stand, engaging families and the wider public in conversations around nutrition and health. Hosted by Dundee Science Centre , the team connected with a large number of visitors over the course of the festival, sharing practical, evidence-based messages and showcasing the MTK approach. The event provided a valuable opportunity for community engagement and public education. MTK Community Workshops, Arbroath February–March 2026 A series of Mobile Teaching Kitchen (MTK) workshops took place in Arbroath between February and March, bringing together members of the public for practical sessions combining cooking demonstrations with nutrition education. The workshops featured both Scottish and South Asian menu templates, highlighting culturally relevant, affordable and nutritious approaches to healthy eating. The final session marked two and a half years of MTK activity in the East of Scotland, reflecting strong community engagement and the contribution of local MTK Champions. Insights shared by participants, including perspectives on traditional low-cost diets, reinforced the value of integrating lived experience with evidence-based guidance. These sessions continue to inform the ongoing development and future expansion of the programme. NNEdPro India A Year of Community, Growth and Impact Over the past year, NNEdPro’s work in India has continued to evolve through a combination of community engagement, nutrition education, research and enterprise development, led by the Bhavishya Shakti Cooperative Society (BSCS). From early 2025 to early 2026, this has included both the continuation of long-standing programmes such as the Mobile Teaching Kitchen and Little Literacy Library, as well as expansion into new areas of impact. These initiatives highlight how locally led approaches can drive meaningful change, while contributing to wider global priorities in food, nutrition and health. As this work continues to grow, we look forward to sharing further insights and identifying opportunities for collaboration across the network. The year began with a field visit to Dindori, Madhya Pradesh (2–5 January 2025) , where data was collected from the Baiga community as part of a collaborative project with NNEdPro and partners in the UAE.   This work is contributing to the development of a Baiga recipe book aimed at improving nutritional adequacy through locally relevant and culturally rooted food practices.   In February , outreach efforts included the distribution of clothing to 25 children in the R.G. Kar slum, supporting basic needs within the community. This was followed in March by activities for International Women’s Day  (8th March), where free health check ups and blood tests were organised for MTK Champions recognising their central role in delivering community nutrition initiatives. In April , the team marked World Autism Day  by providing free meals to children with autism in collaboration with the DWish Institute for Special Needs, reinforcing inclusive community engagement. With the onset of summer, May  saw a responsive public health initiative in which traditional cooling drinks, such as aam panna (Raw mango cooling drink), were distributed to help communities cope with the heatwave. During this period, the MTK programme also expanded its menu by introducing a fish curry dish . This was preceded by focused training for MTK Champions on safe handling, hygiene practices, and the separation of cooking areas, ensuring quality, consistency, and standardisation in preparation. In June , the Bhavishya Shakti Kitchen celebrated Jamaishasthi  (1st June)  with a special Maha Bhoj thali  comprising 12 items, blending cultural tradition with community enterprise. This was followed by a nutrition awareness programme (4th June) , during which community members engaged in one-on-one discussions to better understand food and nutrition, and to learn about the work of the Bhavishya Shakti Kitchen.   Activities continued on 21st June ( International Yoga Day ) , with a nutrition awareness session conducted in collaboration with AIWC, linking nutrition with broader wellbeing practices. During July , the initiative continued to grow through both enterprise and outreach. A bulk order for a birthday celebration  (25th July)  enabled the redistribution of food to children from Little Literacy Libraries (LLLs) in R.G. Kar and Chetla Gate, ensuring that celebrations also contributed to community nourishment.   Earlier in the month, a Mexican cuisine training session  (18th July)  was held for MTK Champions, expanding their culinary skills and diversifying the menu offerings. In August , fundraising efforts supported the renovation and maintenance of LLL spaces , with contributions handed over to the educational supervisor. This was complemented by the distribution of hygiene kits, notebooks, colour pencils, and educational materials by Prof. Ray and Nikitah Rajput Ray.   The MTK initiative also fulfilled a bulk food order for Lake Town Club members (50 plates)  and conducted a Mexican menu workshop , where Champions showcased their skills and introduced new menu options to the wider Kolkata community. September  marked Nutrition Month , during which interactive sessions were held at both library sites, engaging approximately 40 children along with their parents. This helped extend nutrition education beyond children to families, strengthening household-level awareness.   The festive season also brought in bulk orders during Durga Puja , reflecting increasing community trust and demand for MTK services. In October , programme innovation continued with a protein bar experimentation session (8th October), where oats were incorporated into the formulation. The month also included multiple bulk orders, including from Remedy Clinic (17th October) and additional orders later in the month, indicating growing institutional engagement.   November focused on direct health service delivery, with health camps  conducted on 14th November (R.G. Kar Library) and 15th November (Chetla Library), reinforcing the integration of nutrition with broader healthcare access. The year concluded with a series of impactful engagements in December , including a bulk order from PYC  (3rd December), participation in the 6th Kolkata District Book Fair  (17th–19th December) through the MTK van, and a special order of patisapta  (22nd December) distributed to cancer patients at Gandhi Hospital, extending support to vulnerable groups during the festive period.   Momentum has continued into 2026 , with sustained enterprise activity and community engagement.   In January , orders included 25 plates of patisapta  and egg devil (12th January), followed by additional bulk orders at the end of the month. In February , a sponsored initiative enabled the distribution of milk to children at the Little Literacy Libraries  during Maha Shivratri (17th February), continuing efforts to support child nutrition.   Overall, this period has reflected the steady continuation of our work in India across community programmes, training activities, kitchen initiatives, and partnerships.   Looking ahead, the next major activities planned are the MTK Conclave in May  and a clinical nutrition focused event in August . RECENT BLOG POSTS Scottish Mobile Teaching Kitchen at the Dundee Science Festival The Glass Before the Plate   Reflections from the MTK UK Workshop: A Medical Doctor’s Perspective Polypharmacy And Masld: Why Taking Many Medicines Can Matter For Your Health 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 .

Author: Francesco Giurdanella Reviewed by: Sarah Anderson, Prof Sumantra (Shumone) Ray From 19th to 22nd February, NNEdPro participated in the Dundee Science Festival , organised by the Dundee Science Centre . Through our booth, we showcased the Scottish Mobile Teaching Kitchen (MTK) and highlighted its development and impact over the past three years. The event provided a valuable opportunity to engage directly with the public and share our work to improve access to practical food and nutrition education across communities. With more than 1,500 attendees, the festival drew a diverse audience of adults, families and children. The MTK was among the most visited exhibits, reflecting strong interest in its approach and relevance. This engagement enabled us to broaden awareness of the model and deepen understanding of how it supports healthier, more informed food choices. It was a privilege for the Scottish MTK team to contribute to an event that places scientific knowledge, public engagement and community learning at its core.

Water, Nutrition and the Women Who Carry Both A World Water Day Perspective from the Lens of Food, Nutrition and Health Author:  Gerald Cheruiyot  Reviewed by Sarah Armes, Sarah Anderson, Professor Sumantra (Shumone) Ray Before the plate is laid, the glass must be filled. It’s a simple, everyday step that many of us rarely think about. But in many parts of the world, getting that water requires significant time, effort, and risk. For millions of women and girls around the world, it means hours of walking, physical labour and daily exposure to risk, drawn from sources that are unprotected, contaminated, and often shared. This year, the United Nations marks World Water Day under the theme  Water and Gender , anchored by the campaign message message  “Where Water Flows, Equality Grows.”  Water insecurity is simultaneously a gender crisis, a nutrition crisis and a child development crisis, and the evidence is clear that no meaningful response to any one of these can succeed whilst the others remain unaddressed. Improving nutrition for the world's most vulnerable populations begins, quite literally, with the glass before the plate.  Photo: UNICEF/Vinay Panjwani Water Is Not Just a Drink. It Is What Makes Food Work.  To understand why water belongs at the centre of any serious nutrition conversation, it helps to consider what water does in the body. Research published in  Nutrition Reviews  confirms that water is not simply a thirst quencher.[1] It is the substance that makes digestion possible: breaking down food in the stomach, carrying vitamins and minerals from the gut into the bloodstream, supporting the liver and enabling the kidneys to clear metabolic waste. Without sufficient clean water, none of those processes function as they should.  The implication for nutrition is direct and still insufficiently acknowledged in how programmes and policies are designed. Good food consumed without good water does not translate into good nutrition. When water is unsafe or insufficient, the body cannot properly absorb what it is given, regardless of how nutritious the food may be. Water security and nutrition security are not two separate concerns. They are the same concern, and addressing one without the other will always fall short.  What the Research Shows: Water, Food and Child Growth  The real-world consequences of this gap disproportionately affect those with the fewest resources. A study published in  BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health  followed infants in rural Zimbabwe and found that when families lacked reliable access to sufficient food, children grew more slowly in their first 18 months of life.[2] The researchers also noted that addressing food and water insecurity together carries benefits well beyond child growth, including keeping girls in school and freeing up women's time and agency. Where these two forms of insecurity coexist in the same household, they must be tackled together.  A second paper in the same journal deepens this picture, examining how gender inequality shapes child nutrition in conflict-affected settings.[3] It found that when women and girls are consistently last in line for food and water within the home, the consequences reach beyond their own health into the next generation. Children in households where mothers go without are more likely to experience poor nutrition, slower development and poorer long-term outcomes. These patterns do not resolve within one generation. They carry forward.  She Carries the Water. She Carries the Cost.  Understanding the nutritional consequences of water insecurity requires understanding who bears its burden. In households without a water source on the premises, women and girls are responsible for collecting water in eight out of ten cases globally.[4] That daily journey can take anywhere from half an hour to several hours. Over the course of a year, it represents hundreds of hours that women and girls are not in school, not earning, not resting and not caring for young children. Each of those hours has a direct bearing on the health and nutrition of the whole family.  The toll is greatest for pregnant and breastfeeding women, whose nutritional needs are higher than at almost any other stage of life. When the water they drink is contaminated, the harm extends well beyond illness. Unsafe water interferes with the absorption of iron and folate, both essential for a healthy pregnancy, and exposes infants to infections that damage the gut lining in early life. This condition, known as Environmental Enteric Dysfunction, carries no obvious symptoms, yet it silently prevents the body from absorbing nutrients from food, even when food is available. No level of nutritional support can fully address this whilst the water source itself remains contaminated. The glass before the plate, if unsafe, continues to undo the plate's work.  When Women Have a Voice, Water Works Better for Everyone  Recognising the burden is necessary, but it is not sufficient. World Water Day 2026 goes further, calling for a genuine shift in who shapes the solutions. The UN campaign calls for women to have an equal say in how water systems are planned, managed and governed, from the community level to national policy.[4]  This matters because women who collect water daily hold knowledge that is rarely reflected in planning. They know which sources are seasonal, which are unsafe and what distances are realistic for a woman in the later stages of pregnancy. That knowledge is directly relevant to building systems that genuinely serve communities, yet it remains largely absent from the decision-making process.  Joining the Dots: Water, Nutrition, Gender and the Global Goals  Taken together, the evidence reviewed here points to something important. Water insecurity, gender inequality and poor nutrition are not three separate problems that happen to occur in the same communities. They are deeply entangled, each reinforcing the other. A child who is stunted may be eating but drinking contaminated water that prevents absorption. A girl who drops out of school may be needed at the river each morning. A woman who is anaemic during pregnancy may have access to nutritious food, but not to water safe enough to allow her body to use it. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals reflect this interconnection: SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) are designed to reinforce one another. The evidence from  the BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health  review presented here provides a concrete, human foundation for interdependence.  Yet in practice, water and nutrition programmes are still too often designed and funded in isolation. The families living with both challenges are left to navigate the gap between them. Integrating water safety and access into nutrition programming, and making gender equity a guiding principle in both, is not an aspirational ambition. It is a practical, evidence-based necessity.   Fill the Glass. Change the Outcome.  The evidence is both sobering and instructive. Water insecurity, poor nutrition and gender inequality are deeply connected, but none are inevitable. They are the product of choices, priorities and systems that can be changed: by integrating water into nutrition programming, by including women in water governance and by treating water safety as a core, non-negotiable part of any serious effort to improve nutritional outcomes.  Before a single meal can nourish a body, before a child can grow, before a mother can provide her family with what they need, the glass before the plate must be filled with water that is clean, safe and available to all.  On World Water Day 2026, that is the commitment worth renewing.  “Where Water Flows, Equality Grows” — UN World Water Day 2026   We at NNEdPro are proud to have been a collaborator on the cutting-edge SAFEWATER project led by our strategic partner Ulster University , as well as to have contributed to the advisory board of this excellent global challenges work, supported across three Latin American countries by UKRI over 2017-2022. As of March 2026, we are contributing two talks to the 1st São Paulo International Water Seminar, organised by SABESP, one of the key collaborators of the SAFEWATER project. Additionally, a few years ago we had the opportunity to be involved in the first UN environment programme report , linking freshwater ecosystems to risk of malnutrition.   References  [1]   Popkin, B.M., D'Anci, K.E. & Rosenberg, I.H. (2010).  Water, hydration, and health . Nutrition Reviews, 68(8), 439–458. DOI: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2010.00304.x. PubMed Central: PMC2908954.  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2908954/   [2]   Aryeetey, R., Kordas, K., Li, C-S., Tavengwa, N.V., Majo, F.D. et al. (2022).  Growth and growth trajectory among infants in early life: contributions of food insecurity and water insecurity in rural Zimbabwe . BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health, 5(2), 332–343. DOI: 10.1136/bmjnph-2022-000470. Data: SHINE Trial. PubMed Central: PMC9813639.  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9813639/   [3]   Meyer, S.R., Vahedi, L., Lasater, M.E. et al. (2025).  Gender-based violence and child nutrition in fragile settings: exploring intersections and opportunities for evidence generation . BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health, 8(1), e000682. DOI: 10.1136/bmjnph-2023-000682. PubMed Central: PMC12322537.  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12322537/   [4]   UN-Water, UNICEF & UN Women (2026).  World Water Day 2026: Water and Gender. Where Water Flows, Equality Grows — Campaign Launch . United Nations.   https://www.un.org/en/observances/water-day

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.

Author: Sarah Anderson Edited by: Sumantra (Shumone) Ray As we move into the early months of 2026, this edition of the Anna   Edesia  newsletter reflects on a particularly active and important period for our global community. Since our last update in November 2025, we have brought together researchers, educators, practitioners and partners from around the world (120 in person and many more online) at the 11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health in Scotland. The Summit marked a significant milestone, offering space for critical dialogue, knowledge exchange and collaboration across human and planetary health, education, policy and practice.   Alongside the Summit, the past few months have seen continued progress across the NNEdPro network, particularly Strategic Collaborative Partnerships. We are pleased to share updates on new and strengthened partnerships, developments within BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health, and upcoming events and opportunities for engagement in 2026. Together, these activities reflect our shared commitment to advancing evidence-informed action, capacity building and equitable approaches to food, nutrition and health worldwide.   We hope this newsletter provides a useful snapshot of recent highlights and what lies ahead, and we thank our members, partners and collaborators for their ongoing contributions and support. A Recap of the 11th International Summit From 10–13 December 2025, the 11th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health  brought together a global, multidisciplinary community in Scotland for four days of discussion, debate and collaboration. The Summit provided a timely opportunity to reflect on progress across the field while addressing the complex challenges shaping food, nutrition and health systems worldwide.   Across plenaries, parallel sessions and interactive discussions, participants explored emerging evidence, innovations in education and practice, and the interconnectedness of human and planetary health. The hybrid format enabled broad international engagement, reinforcing the Summit’s role as an inclusive platform for knowledge exchange across research, policy and practice.   A strong emphasis was placed on systems thinking, equity and implementation, highlighting the importance of cross-sector collaboration in translating evidence into action. The programme also created space for early-career researchers and practitioners to engage with established leaders and contribute to forward-looking dialogue.   Further reflections and key insights from the Summit are captured in two recent blog posts, which we invite you to explore here: An Overview of the NNEdPro 11th International Summit 2025  Global Youth Essay Competition and Research Dissemination: Youth as Agents of Change Did you attend the Summit? Don't forget about your CPD credits! The Summit was formally approved by the Royal Society of Biology  for Continuing Professional Development.   Participants who attended 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. NNEdPro in the Global Media A strong start to 2026 saw NNEdPro’s evidence-based nutrition expertise reach international audiences through high-profile broadcast media. Professor Sumantra Ray represented the Institute across platforms including The BMJ, TRT World and Times Radio, translating complex nutrition science into accessible, policy-relevant insights for professionals and the wider public.   From workforce wellbeing and climate-related threats to food quality, to emerging food technologies and public trust, these engagements highlighted NNEdPro’s role as a trusted global authority at the intersection of nutrition science, public health and policy.   Read more about these media contributions and key takeaways in our recent blog post . Announcing New Partnerships  We are pleased to announce some new and strengthened partnerships!   These collaborations support NNEdPro’s mission to advance evidence-informed nutrition education, research and policy across diverse global contexts. Scottish Alliance for Food (SCAF)   We are pleased to announce that we have signed a collaborative agreement with SCAF.   Both NNEdPro and SCAF share a strong commitment to addressing food and nutrition inequalities across Scotland and beyond, strengthening community-based action, and supporting healthier, fairer food systems.   This collaboration brings together research, policy, and practice, encompassing innovative initiatives such as community teaching kitchens, joint funding opportunities, and shared events and learning.   We're excited to build on the momentum! The James Hutton Institute   We're excited to collaborate with The James Hutton Institute (one of the Founding Members of SCAF) to advance research and action at the intersection of food systems, nutrition, the environment, and population health.   By bringing together complementary expertise, this partnership will support evidence-informed policy, innovative research, and practical solutions for more sustainable, resilient, and equitable food systems. Physicians Association for Nutrition (PAN) International   NNEdPro is pleased to announce a new partnership with PAN International, marked by the official launch of the Global Nutrition Observatory for Medical Nutrition Education (GNOME).  This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening nutrition education within medical and healthcare training worldwide. GNOME has been established as a global hub for evidence, collaboration and action, designed to map, analyse and support improvements in medical nutrition education across regions. Through the collection of comparative data and real-world insights, GNOME will help inform curriculum development, policy dialogue and capacity building efforts internationally.   As founding partners, NNEdPro and PAN International have jointly committed funding and strategic support to ensure a strong foundation for GNOME’s first global survey cycle and its long-term impact. This partnership represents an important step towards advancing evidence-based nutrition training for healthcare professionals globally. Bern University of Applied Sciences   We are pleased to share that, from 2026, the International Academy of Nutrition Educators (IANE)  will be co-managed and co-hosted with the Department of Health Professions at Bern University of Applied Sciences  alongside NNEdPro as the founding and lead managing partner.   This partnership formalises our ongoing collaboration and provides a strengthened framework for jointly delivering future IANE activities and strategic initiatives. It enhances our Pan-European presence, supports coordinated academic and professional development efforts and reinforces our commitment to advancing high-quality nutrition education and practice.   We are also delighted to announce that Prof Dr Tamara Bucher is the new Honorary Academic Dean and Fellow of IANE, alongside her team members, Dr Joyce Haddad and Franziska Scheidegger-Balmer, wh o join as IANE Professional members. We look forward to working closely with colleagues at Berner Fachhochschule BFH  as this new phase begins. BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health: Editorial Board Updates We are delighted to welcome Kathy Martyn and Jimmy Louie as the new co-Editors-in-Chief of our flagship journal, BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health!   Dr Kathy Martyn, RN, RNutr, BSc, BEd, MSc (Nutritional Medicine), PhD, based in the UK and Dr Jimmy Louie, AdvAPD, BSc, MNutrDiet, PhD, located in Australia, together bring decades of experience across nutrition research and practice spanning primary, secondary, and tertiary disease prevention as well as clinical intervention in diverse health systems!   We are excited by the perspectives brought to the table by the new co-EiCs around inclusivity in nutrition research as well as democratisation of nutrition knowledge to serve all echelons of society. We believe that this milestone in the changing vanguard of BMJ NPH will steer our journal to new heights as a beacon for evidence informed policy and practice on the global stage!   We are also very grateful to our inaugural Editor-in-Chief since 2018, Martin Kohlmeier, for his exceptional service over the past 8 years! Martin continues as an Emeritus / Consulting Editor for BMJ NPH and following his retirement from UNC Chapel Hill he has now been appointed as an Adjunct Professor at the State University of New York (SUNY Downstate Health Sciences) with which NNEdPro has a very fruitful knowledge exchange partnership.   There are also several changes to both he editorial board as well as the management board of BMJ NPH and to find out more about the new leadership please click here .   Mobile Teaching Kitchen (MTK): Scotland Milestone As Burns Night was marked on 25 January, we also celebrated two years since initial funding was awarded to launch the Mobile Teaching Kitchen (MTK)  in Scotland. This milestone reflects both the growth of the MTK programme and NNEdPro’s established presence in the region.   Prior to the commencement of the Scottish MTK project, Professor Sumantra Ray held an inaugural workshop at The Rowett Institute  in Aberdeen and we subsequently signed a collaborative partnership agreement with the Rowett. We are delighted that on the second anniversary of the Scottish MTK, Professor Ray has been elected to an Honorary Fellowship [Research] at the Rowett, and we are looking forward to collaborating further with our excellent colleagues in Aberdeen as we envision Y3 and beyond of the MTK journey in Scotland!   To mark this anniversary, NNEdPro unveiled the official Scottish MTK Tartan, created by Ashleigh Slater during the Gala Tartan Dinner at the 11th International Summit in December 2025.   The images below capture the journey and the MTK Champions who continue to bring this work to life. Special Interest Groups (SIGs): Updates This year marks ten years since the establishment of NNEdPro’s first Regional Networks , which have grown to 10 voluntary networks across six continents, engaging more than 1,000 professionals! This milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on progress and to shape the next phase of network activity in line with the forthcoming Strategy 2026–2030.   From 1 February 2026, an updated and simplified structure will support this evolution, with Regional Networks led by Co-Leads (and Deputy Co-Leads where appropriate) and all members encouraged to engage in at least one network.   Alongside Regional Networks, NNEdPro’s Special Interest Groups (SIGs)  continue to advance collaboration across thematic areas aligned with the 13 BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health  Special Collections. Recent SIG outputs include editorials on Nutrition, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence , and Nutrition and Women’s Health and Nutrition Education  (currently in final revision).   We are also seeking Co-Chairs for several SIGs, including Food, Mood and Mental Health; Precision Nutrition; and Public Health Nutrition. Members interested in contributing to SIG leadership are invited to express interest by 15 February 2026 . Upcoming Events April 2026: NNEdPro Summer School   The NNEdPro Summer School returns from 23 to 24 April, offering an intensive learning experience focused on evidence-based nutrition, research literacy and real-world application.   Designed for students, early-career professionals and practitioners, the programme combines expert teaching with interactive discussion and practical case studies.   More details, including dates and registration information, can be found here . Sneak Peek: 12th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health  Planning is underway for the 12th International Summit on Food, Nutrition and Health , taking place from 23 to 25 November 2026 in Malta!   Building on insights from previous Summits, the 2026 programme will continue to address global challenges through evidence, ethics and implementation across food, nutrition and health systems.   Further announcements on themes, speakers and abstract submissions will follow soon! RECENT BLOG POSTS Global Youth Essay Competition and Research Dissemination: Youth as Agents of Change Target 2030 - Food and Nutrition Policy: From Human to Planetary Health: An Overview of the NNEdPro 11th International Summit 2025    A Strong Start to 2026: NNEdPro Bringing Evidence-Based Nutrition to Global Media Got Milk? How Your Ability to Digest It Might Be Connected to Your Weight Availability and Access: Key Takeaways from the Nairobi Satellite Event A Strategic Evolution for BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health: Honouring Our Foundations and Welcoming New Leadership Belém 2025: From Global Crises to Amazonian Solutions MTK through the eyes of Agents of Change Check out all published blogs here . 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 .

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.