A bet for the future

by Prof. Antonello Santini
Department of Food Science -  Study University of Naples "Federico II"

We are what we eat, is an old saying that is a half-truth linking food safety to human bioethics. Chemically our body is made from the food and water we consume, and these chemicals flow through the body throughout our life. The consumption of food is therefore of great importance for human health. Every living organism relies on consumption of energy and metabolites in order to live. Food is defined as material that contains essential body nutrients, such as carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins or minerals, and is ingested and assimilated by an organism to produce energy, stimulate growth, and maintain life. The main sources of food for animals are animals, fungi and plants: there are many countries where food supply is not guaranteed, and biotechnology is necessary to stimulate production and reduce losses due to disease. Once the food supply is guaranteed, the consumer tends to concentrate more on the particular individual tastes and preferences, and food quality and food choice are goals that developed economies seek, and are also important for food-exporting nations.