Cereals and cereal-based products are the most important source of food and provide the major source of energy and protein. The cereals most commonly consumed by the world population are wheat, maize, rice, barley, sorghum, oats, rye and millet. The term whole grain is frequently used in connection with these cereals. Whole grains, as well as foods made from them, consist of the entire grain seed (called the kernel). The kernel is made of three components: bran, germ, and endosperm. Whole grains have a high content of carbohydrate and nutrients, including several B vitamins, minerals, and beneficial phytochemicals.
Cereal whole grains have therefore formed the basis of diets in many different cultures and cuisines for 3000 to 4000 years. Unfortunately, within the past 100 years or so, a majority of the population has consumed refined grain products. In recent years, several national dietary guidelines, including the Malaysian Dietary Guidelines 2010 have highlighted the importance of consuming whole grains.
In order to promote the consumption of whole grains, it is essential to provide consumers with a good understanding of what whole grains are and their health benefits. Consumers need to be aware that their current intake of whole grains is indeed extremely low. The food industry needs to play its role in making more whole grain foods and products available to the consumers. At the same time, the regulatory system needs to look into the development, marketing and advertising of whole grain products. All stakeholders, including nutritionists, dietitians, medical professionals, consumer organisations, and the food industry have a role to play in helping consumers meet the recommendations of the dietary guidelines to consume more whole grain foods.
Meeting Summary
Date and Time:
April 22, 2011
Venue:
Crowne Plaza Mutiara Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Organizer:
ILSI SEA Region Malaysian Country Committee
Co-organizer:
Nutrition Society of Malaysia
Objectives:
1. To update on current understanding of whole grains, food sources and physiological effects on human health
2. To review consumption of whole grains in Malaysia/Asia and dietary recommendations
3. To provide update on industry efforts to increase consumer consumption of whole-grains including technological and regulatory considerations
4. To provide a forum for discussion among all stakeholders on aspects related to promoting increased consumption of whole grains, including consumer education and promotion, industry innnovations, and regulatory considerations
Please click here to view the Program and Registration Details
To register, please download the registration form here and submit the completed form by April 15, 2011.
For registration and inquiries, please contact:
Dr Tee E Siong
TES NutriHealth Strategic Consultancy
46 Jalan SS22/32
47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor D.E.
Tel: 03-77 287 287 / 019-321 1788
Fax: 03-77 287 426
Email: nutrihealth.tes@myjaring.net