4th International Conference on Food and Nutrition

Ingesting sufficient nutrients as part of a varied diet is necessary for the health and function of all cells, including immune cells. Some diets may better prepare the body for microbial attack and excessive inflammation, but individual foods are unlikely to offer special protection. Each step of the human body's immune response depends on the existence of multiple micronutrients. Instances of nutrients that have been observed as being integral for the wellbeing and proper functioning of immune cells include -

• selenium,
• vitamin D,
• protein,
• iron,
• vitamin C, and

These vitamins and minerals are found in a range of plant and animal foods. Diets that are limited in variety and poor in nutrients, such as consisting mostly of ultra-processed foods and genetically modified foods and are found lacking in minutely processed foods, can adversely impact a healthy immune system. A Western diet that is conventionally high in refined sugar and red meat and low in the micro biome in fruits and vegetables may promote disruption in healthy gut microorganisms, leading to the chronic inflammation of the gut and has also been found to be linked to suppressed immunity responses.

Food Science and Chemistry

Chemistry is of major importance to the field of food processing. Food chemistry entails the study of chemical methods and synergies between all biological and non-organic elements of food. It informs us of changes in foods that take place during processing and storage. In addition, it provides techniques and means to improve changes in foods like improving fermentation by converting lactose to lactic acid by microorganisms or to prevent changes in foods like prevention of browning apples and pears, while also retaining their nutritional value, taste, texture, and freshness. Like any other organic matter, food can break down over time. The importance of food chemistry is in the fact that it is fully capable of countering the effects of decomposition and spoilage and extending the shelf life of food. . Register for this Food Science and Technology Summit to find out more about such immunity-strengthening foods.