Micronutrients in sustainable and nutritious diet

forthcoming

"The goal of the MSCA-Doctoral Network ""Micronutrients in sustainable and nutritious diet"" is to train young scientists in micronutrients (vitamin and mineral) research to ensure that future sustainable diets provide these essential nutrients to promote healthy lives for populations globally. Hidden hunger is a challenge in Europe, which may worsen in the transition toward a more plant-based diet. Micronutrients from plant-based food compared to food of animal origin are considered less bioavailable, and some micronutrients are either absent or in insignificant amounts in plants. In MICROSUNSET the objectives are to 1) establish models to assess the bioavailability of micronutrients in foods and supplements, 2) investigate strategies to increase the content and/or bioavailability of micronutrients in plant-based products beyond fortification, 3) develop advanced methods for quantification of micronutrients, 4) conduct survey to investigate consumers acceptance of plant-based food products, 5) empower consumers, health professionals, scientists, and food product developers to choose and advise foods, meals and diets with superior nutrient delivery. The data obtained in this project will provide new fundamental understanding of the effect of production processes of foods, supplements and fortified foods on bioavailability of the individual micronutrients from plant-based foods versus food of animal origin. This will be essential for future recommendations for dietary intake and the evaluation of new food ingredients and products. The young researchers will participate in a wide doctoral training program covering all aspects of micronutrients from food production towards improved sustainability. Through the MICROSUNSET network we expect young researchers to become highly employable scientists with practical and qualified knowledge within the food and nutrition sciences for a career in academic, industries and public authorities."