The 5th International Food Conference at Mansoura University Kicks Off Under the Theme "Food and Nutrition... Challenges and Innovations"

The Fifth International Food Conference (MIFC2025), organized by the Faculty of Agriculture at Mansoura University under the theme "Food and Nutrition... Challenges and Innovations," commenced on November 10th and will run until November 14th. The conference is held under the patronage of Prof. Cherif Khater, President of the University, and chaired by Prof. Tarek Ghalwash, Vice President for Graduate Studies and Research. Experts and researchers from universities, research centers, and industrial institutions both within Egypt and abroad are participating.

The conference was inaugurated by Prof. Mohamed Ali Shata, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Conference Chair, in the presence of Prof. Saleh Saada, Vice Dean for Education and Student Affairs; Prof. Metwally Abu Saree, Vice Dean for Community Service and Environmental Development; Prof. Walid Nassar, Vice Dean for Graduate Studies and Research; Prof. Shady El-Shahawy, Conference Rapporteur; and a number of faculty members, researchers, and students. Prof. Sahar Nassim, Dean of the Faculty of Early Childhood Education at Mansoura University, also attended. The conference is a distinguished scientific platform that brings together researchers, specialists, companies, and government agencies working in the fields of food production and processing, nutrition, food quality and safety, and innovative technologies. Its aim is to facilitate the exchange of expertise and discuss the latest scientific and technological developments.

This year, the conference aims to enhance international scientific cooperation and explore innovative solutions to address food security challenges, with a focus on biotechnology, functional foods, smart packaging, food economics, and food product safety and quality.

During the opening session, Prof. Rania El-Gamal, Coordinator of the Conference's Scientific Committee, welcomed the attendees, emphasizing the event's importance in supporting applied scientific research. Prof. Shady El-Shahawy, the conference rapporteur, delivered a speech thanking the college administration, participants, and sponsors, affirming that the conference reflects the prestigious standing of the Faculty of Agriculture at Mansoura University both locally and internationally.

Prof. Walid Nassar explained that the conference is witnessing broad participation from young researchers and postgraduate students, aiming to provide a genuine platform for exchanging expertise, supporting food innovation, and applying research findings to serve industry and society.

Prof. Mohamed Ali Shata said that the Faculty of Agriculture places special importance on scientific conferences that foster collaboration between researchers and industrial institutions, and support innovation and entrepreneurship within the framework of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and Egypt's Vision 2030. He added that the conference contributes to strengthening Mansoura University's position as a leading scientific and research center in agricultural and food sciences.

The opening ceremony included honoring members of the General Secretariat and the Scientific and Organizing Committees, along with a number of prominent figures who have contributed to supporting scientific and applied work.

The first day concluded with the first research session, which addressed a range of scientific studies on improving the nutritional value of food products. This was followed by a poster presentation featuring researchers from the Faculty of Agriculture. Prof. Walid Mahmoud El-Sharoud, Professor of Dairy Microbiology, also delivered a lecture on employing artificial intelligence in developing the food industry, improving product quality, and reducing industrial waste.

The conference continues with workshops and scientific sessions on functional foods, food preservation using natural vegetable oils, and the role of proper nutrition in promoting public health. The conference will conclude on Thursday with a closing session and the announcement of final recommendations.

The convening of the Fifth International Food Conference underscores the role of the Faculty of Agriculture at Mansoura University in supporting applied scientific research and innovation in the field of food and nutrition, and reinforces the university's position as a leading academic and research institution both locally and internationally.