Astro Nourish – Seminar on Space Nutrition August 30, 2024
Thirteen students from I and III Sem MSc Home Science (Nutrition & Dietetics) and four faculty members from the PG Department of Home Science participated in the AstroNourish Seminar on Space Nutrition. The seminar was jointly organized by the PG Department of Home Science, St. Joseph’s College for Women, Alappuzha, and the Association of Food Scientists and Technologists (India) (AFSTI) Kollam Chapter as part of National Space Week Celebrations, in association with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The aim of the seminar was to explore the realm of space nutrition and its significance in the field of nutrition and dietetics, with the objective of educating students and faculty on the latest developments and research in space nutrition. Dr. KR. Anilakumar, Professor, Amala Hospital & Medical College, Thrissur, and Former Associate Director & Senior Scientist, Defense Food Research Lab, DRDO, Mysore (Former Chairman, Evaluation of quality of Processed foods being provided to the prestigious Gaganyaan Mission – 2025 of India). was the resource person. He delivered a talk on technological advancements in space nutrition, including freeze-drying, thermostabilization methods, and advanced packaging systems, ensuring the health and well-being of astronauts during long-duration space missions. He also highlighted the importance of limited storage and shelf life, microgravity environment, personalized nutrition, and meal planning. The seminar was informative and provided a deeper understanding of innovative technologies used to prepare food for astronauts, paving the way for future space exploration and habitation. The outcome of the seminar was an enhanced knowledge and understanding of space nutrition among participants, with potential applications in research, academia, and industry. Ms. Loosiya. KP (Assistant Professor Adhoc) and Ms. Nadeeda. O (I Sem MSc Home Science – Nutrition & Dietetics) served as the faculty and student coordinators, respectively.
