Director of the University’s Centre for Nutraceuticals Professor M. Gulrez Zariwala shared his expertise on the topic of Nutraceuticals in Healthcare and Nutrition in a panel discussion at the London Biotechnology Show 2024 on 9 May.
The London Biotechnology Show is a leading event in biotechnology in the United Kingdom and European region for showcasing advances in medical and healthcare sectors worldwide. It features a comprehensive conference programme, an expo and interactive panel sessions enabling global thought leaders to exchange insights and knowledge.
Professor Zariwala was invited to provide his expert insights at a panel discussion on the topic of Challenges and Opportunities in Integrating Nutraceuticals into Healthcare Practices and joined other thought leaders in the field of nutraceuticals and supplements to have a rich and meaningful discussion.
Professor Zariwala’s comments on the need for robust research to validate product claims and to promote innovation in the sector were highlighted as one of the key takeaways from the London Biotechnology event by several media outlets.
Professor Zariwala said: “The current buzzword in the nutrition industry is 'science backed', and terms like ‘absorption’ and ‘bioavailability’ have seeped into consumer culture leading to exaggerated marketing claims that are often not backed by robust studies. Our approach to product validation and product development using an academic level of rigour is leading the way in creating a truly science backed innovation environment that benefits both the industry and consumers.”
The Centre for Nutraceuticals at the University of Westminster is a first-of-its-kind initiative that aims to act as a bridge between the industry and academia to promote research-based knowledge transfer and innovation in Nutraceuticals which is an umbrella term that includes foods or products derived from foods (e.g. functional foods and dietary supplements) that have potential health benefits. The Centre has recently hosted the Health and Nutrition Conference 2024 that brought together students from across the School of Life Sciences to share perspectives, network with peers and external experts and learn more about the field of Health and Nutrition.
The panel discussion directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Wellbeing. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about the Centre for Nutraceuticals at the University of Westminster.
