Human nutrition, food security and health and how these can be achieved with the help of science and technology, particularly emerging technologies, will be the subject of discussion on Friday, 6 August 2021, when the CSIR hosts a virtual webinar, as part of National Science Week (NSW) celebrations.

You are invited to join three CSIR experts in this area, Dr Nomusa Dlamini, Dr Blessed Okole and Dr Laven Naidoo, as they chat about:

• Food security and safety: Dr Nomusa Dlamini will be talking about the work the CSIR is doing to improve food safety testing to reduce foodborne illnesses and support the export market – how the expertise leveraged across the CSIR, including Blockchain and Internet of Things technologies can enable higher control and traceability to improve supply chain logistics; and how the use of sensing devices can improve monitoring, and more about the rapid on-site surveillance and routine testing technologies (for mycotoxins, pesticides and pathogens).
• Smart farming using precision agriculture information systems: Dr Laven Naidoo, will be talking about how small and emerging farmers, especially young farmers, can leverage the power of digital revolution or 4IR farming to improve food security.
• Dr Blessed Okole will outline how innovative product development can play a role in the consumption of underutilised vegetables and vegetables in general.

The webinar will also look at opportunities for young people, including emerging research areas, as well as business opportunities.

The NSW is an annual celebration of science, engineering and technology that attracts thousands of learners and members of the public to workshops, science shows and lectures, which are held at universities, schools, science centres and public facilities nationwide.

This year it takes place from 1 to 7 August 2021, under the theme: “Making it possible through science”. To keep up with the practice of recognising and aligning with the United Nations’ (UN) international observances, participating institutions have been encouraged to consider the UN General Assembly theme:  'The International Year of Fruits and Vegetables', which provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the important role of fruits and vegetables in human nutrition, food security and health.

To join the webinar follow this link:

Join on your computer or mobile app

Click here to join the meeting

Learn More | Meeting options

You can also watch the webinar via the Youtube channel: https://youtu.be/qHlvLIyHq5g