Developmental Physiology and Food Safety
摘要
Developmental physiology focuses on cellular differentiation, organogenesis and physiological adaptation of organism during its growth. It explores on nutritional, genetic and environmental factors that influence the development of the children from prenatal to early childhood. The interconnection of developmental physiology and food safety are deep as food contamination and nutritional quality directly impacts the growth, organ formation and long-term health. During the developmental phase, severe chronic diseases can occur due to contamination by pathogens (e.g. E. coli, Salmonella), heavy metals (e.g., Lead, cadmium) or chemical toxins. Essential macronutrient (Protein, Fats) and micronutrients (iron, iodine) are important for proper physiological development of both infant and mother. However, foodborne diseases and adulterant can negatively affect these processes that can lead to stunted growth, metabolic dysfunction and reduced cognitive ability. Therefore, food safety is very important to safeguard the developmental health across the lifespan. Food safety can be ensured through controlling contamination, sustainable agriculture and public awareness. This chapter focuses on developmental physiology and role of nutrition in it to promote maternal and infant health. Moreover, it provides measures to promote food safety and public health. It also highlights the key challenges that can negatively affect the food safety and gives insight on new innovative technologies that can revolutionize the food industry and ensure good quality and safe food products are available for the consumers.