NNEdPro Global Institute

Co-hosts Dr Eoin Ryan and Professor Shumone Ray are joined by Dr Kathy Martyn and Ben Atkinson to explore the evolving conversation around ultra-processed foods (UPFs), moving beyond simplified narratives to examine the evidence, limitations, and real-world implications. While high consumption of UPFs is associated with poorer health outcomes, the discussion highlights important nuances, including the role of food processing in safety, affordability, and nutritional adequacy. The panel also reflects on the challenges of current classifications and the risk of creating confusion or unnecessary fear among the public.Shifting the focus from individual foods to overall dietary patterns, the conversation emphasises practicality, balance, and accessibility. Rather than promoting rigid guidelines, the speakers explore more realistic approaches, including small behavioural “nudges”, community-based learning, and adapting meals within everyday constraints. Ultimately, the episode calls for a more inclusive and pragmatic approach to healthy eating, one that reflects how people actually live, shop, and eat.

In the opening episode of the 2026 NNEdPro podcast series co-hosts, Dr Eoin Ryan and Professor Shumone Ray are joined by Oxfordshire Primary Care Doctor, Dr Ellen Fallows, and Nutrition Science Communications expert, Ben Atkinson, to explore the evolving role of incretin-based therapies particularly in the management of obesity.The discussion highlights how these medications are transforming treatment by supporting weight loss through appetite suppression, but raises concerns about a critical gap: nutrition. The speakers emphasise that many clinical trials and real-world practices overlook nutritional quality, despite growing evidence of widespread deficiencies and poor dietary patterns.Key themes include the risks of worsening malnutrition, especially in vulnerable populations, the need for better public and professional education, and the importance of integrating nutrition into medical training and treatment pathways. Practical approaches such as simple dietary screening, multidisciplinary care, and community-based solutions are also explored.The episode concludes with a clear message: while these therapies are effective, they must be supported by stronger nutrition knowledge, personalised care, and system-wide change to truly improve long-term health outcomes.

Do a deep dive with Eoin, joined by Prof. Sumantra Ray and Dr. Kathy Martin, as they explore the upcoming NNEdPro Global Institute 11th International Summit taking place in Dundee, Scotland, from 10 to 13 December. Discover a rich programme featuring panel discussions, exchanges of ideas, a special keynote speech, roundtables, and a variety of side events, including a unique culinary experience curated by international chefs.This Summit marks the culmination of a year-long series of satellite events delivered across the globe, drawing on the diverse expertise of our Regional Network.Follow Eoin and his guests to learn more about what awaits you in Dundee, and we look forward to seeing you at the Summit!This episode has been produced by Francesco Giurdanella

Join us in an inspiring conversation with Prof. Pauline Douglas, Co-chair of the International Summit and NNEdPro Global Institute Vice-Chair and Chief Educationist and Operations Director, Dr. Martin Kohlmeier, Editor-in-Chief of BMJ Nutrition Prevention and Health, and Dr. Kathy Martin, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of BMJ Nutrition Prevention and Health. Together we explore the key themes our Summit, the innovative approach posed by our International Summit, and the vital connection between health and nutrition.

Joining us in this episode are Professor Sumantra Ray, Chief Scientist and Executive Director of the NNEdPro Global Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health; Sarah Anderson, Senior Operations and Enterprise Officer at the NNEdPro Global Institute; and Ramya Rajaram, Academic Officer at the NNEdPro Global Institute.Together, we explore the core themes of this year’s International Summit, with a special focus on the socioeconomic dimensions of the summit’s title, “Democratising and Decolonising Food and nutrition: From Science to Society.” Our discussion covers the summit’s diverse thematic tracks, offers insights into the current global food systems landscape, and highlights the challenges before us.

We're joined by the co-leads of NNEdPro's 9th International Summit on Nutrition and Health, Dr Sofia Cavalleri and Sucheta Mitra, along with Prof Shumone Ray, to segment this year's summit titled "Sustainable Resourcing For All In Food & Nutrition Security: Creative solutions for healthy & resilient populations”. We break down this year's theme into smaller pieces, and address each segment, exploring past and current projects that NNEdPro is involved in related to that as aspect, as well as literature and research trends.