Navi Mumbai Hosts 30th ICFoST, Exploring the Future of Food Science and Technology
Navi Mumbai recently played host to the 30th Indian Convention of Food Scientists and Technologists (ICFoST), a pivotal annual event dedicated to advancements in food science and technology. Held from December 19th to 21st at Dr. D.Y. Patil University, the convention brought together experts from various sectors to deliberate on critical themes shaping the future of food, including safety, standards, security, and sustainability. The event was organized by the Association of Food Scientists and Technologists (AFSTI), a prominent professional body committed to propelling the field forward.
Kellanova India Leads Panel Discussion on FoodSSSS: Navigating the Complexities of the Modern Food Landscape
A key highlight of the convention was a panel discussion sponsored by Kellanova India, focusing on "FoodSSSS" – an acronym encompassing Food Safety, Standards, Security, and Sustainability. The discussion provided a platform for in-depth exploration of the multifaceted challenges and opportunities facing the food industry today. Kellanova’s involvement underscored their commitment to promoting food safety, sustainability, and knowledge dissemination across the food ecosystem, empowering consumers to make informed dietary choices.
Expert Panel Weighs in on Social Media’s Influence, Start-up Challenges, and the Importance of Regulation
Moderated by Swarn Singh, Director of Marketing at Kellanova South Asia, the panel featured a distinguished lineup of experts. These included Dr. Ashutosh Upadhyay, Head of the Department of Food Science & Technology at NIFTEM; Dr. Jagmeet Madan, National President of the Indian Dietetic Association (IDA); Sonam Pradhan, Digital & Social Media Marketing Lead at Kellogg’s India; Pankaj Sharma, Founder & CEO of Happa Foods; Vaidehi, Director of Regulatory Affairs at FSSAI; and Neerja Deodhar, Consulting Editor of The Good Food Movement.
The panelists delved into a range of pertinent issues impacting the food sector. One focal point was the pervasive influence of social media on consumer choices, examining how this powerful platform shapes perceptions and dietary trends. The discussion also addressed the challenges faced by burgeoning food start-ups in leveraging digital platforms to establish brand credibility and reach wider audiences. Furthermore, the panel underscored the vital role of regulations in safeguarding consumer safety and ensuring ethical practices within the food industry.
Collaboration: The Key to a Sustainable and Informed Food Ecosystem
A recurring theme throughout the session was the importance of collaboration. The panelists emphasized the need for synergistic partnerships between industry stakeholders, academic institutions, and media outlets to create a more robust and transparent food ecosystem. By working together, these entities can effectively address the complex challenges facing the food industry and promote sustainable practices that benefit both consumers and the environment.
ICFoST 2023: A Catalyst for Progress in Food Science and Technology
The 30th ICFoST served as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, fostering insightful discussions on the evolving landscape of food science and technology. The event highlighted the crucial role of collaboration, innovation, and regulation in shaping a future where food is safe, sustainable, and accessible to all. The insights shared by the expert panelists provided a valuable roadmap for navigating the complexities of the modern food industry and promoting a more informed and responsible food ecosystem. The focus on emerging trends, such as the influence of social media and the specific challenges faced by start-ups, further enriched the discourse, offering practical guidance for stakeholders across the food sector. Ultimately, ICFoST 2023 served as a catalyst for progress, driving forward-thinking conversations and inspiring collaborative action towards a more sustainable and secure food future.