DMMMSU researchers, Ms. Mary Ann Ysabel Y. Orpilla and Ms. Rossana P. Abat, participated in a week-long training on “Masterclass on Food Safety and Quality: Global Innovations and Industry Standards” at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Thailand from December 9-13, 2024.

This program, part of the CHED LAKAS project, focused on the latest developments in food safety, offering in-depth knowledge on global innovations, industry standards, and compliance with international regulations which aimed to equip participants with practical tools to address emerging food production and distribution challenges.

During the masterclass, the attendees learned about advanced food safety practices through hands-on learning and expert-led sessions. This experience complements the ongoing research study by Orpilla, Abat, and their fellow DMMMSU researchers, who are focused on developing probiotics from locally sourced ingredients such as Roselle, Mulberry, and Corn in La Union. The training also provided networking opportunities, allowing the researchers to connect with global professionals in the food safety industry, further enhancing their expertise in food safety and quality management.

The funding is from the CHED-LAKAS (Leading the Advancement of Knowledge in Agriculture and Sciences) program, which focuses on research and development efforts in four strategic technology areas: 1) Agriculture, Environment, Forestry, and Fisheries, 2) Health and Nutrition, 3) Science of Engineering, and 4) National Quality Infrastructure. (By Jesus Rafael B. Jarata)