Nutrisynergy: Milagres College Hosts National Workshop on Nutrition and Health Synergy
The Department of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics at Milagres College, Mangaluru, successfully conducted a one-day national-level workshop titled "Nutrisynergy" on February 17, 2026. The event focused on the critical relationship between dietary habits and long-term health outcomes.
This initiative serves as a timely intervention in the academic and public health space, addressing the growing need for nutritional literacy. By bringing together industry experts and students, the workshop aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical health management.
- Date: February 17, 2026.
- Location: Milagres College, Mangaluru.
- Unique Inauguration: Dignitaries mixed fresh grains and vegetables to prepare a healthy salad, symbolizing the theme of synergy.
- Participation: 170 students and 5 faculty members from various educational institutions.
The workshop opened with a symbolic ceremony emphasizing the core message of the event. Rather than a traditional lamp-lighting, the guest panel prepared a fresh salad, highlighting the immediate importance of natural, whole foods in daily nutrition.
Principal of Milagres College, Rev. Dr. Alwin Serrao, formally inaugurated the proceedings. He addressed the gathering on the indispensable role of essential nutrients in maintaining a disease-free life, noting that education remains the most potent tool in preventive healthcare.
"Essential nutrients play a vital role in our daily lives. Educating people about food and nutrition is a key factor in preventing many diseases." — Rev. Dr. Alwin Serrao, Principal.
"Understanding health in the context of modern lifestyles is of paramount importance today." — Rev. Fr. Bonaventure Nazareth, Correspondent.
The technical sessions were divided into three comprehensive segments, each focusing on a different pillar of the nutrition and food industry. These sessions provided a deep dive into biological health, industrial safety, and clinical practice.
In the first session, Dr. Srinivas Kakkilaya, a consultant physician, discussed the complex relationship between the gut and the brain. He explained how metabolic health dictates not only physical fitness but also mental clarity and overall resilience.
Gut Health & Metabolism: Dr. Srinivas Kakkilaya (MD) highlighted how the microbiome influences systemic well-being.
Industrial Quality: Mrs. Shikha A. S. outlined the rigorous standards required in food manufacturing and the growing demand for quality control professionals.
Clinical Dietetics: Mrs. Aruna Mallya detailed the practical execution of patient-specific dietary plans in hospital environments.
The second session shifted focus toward the professional landscape. Mrs. Shikha A. S., representing Navadurga Food Products, briefed students on the evolving career paths in food safety. She emphasized that the industry requires a specific blend of technical skill and adherence to safety protocols.
The final session addressed the practical application of nutrition in medical settings. Mrs. Aruna Mallya, a Senior Dietitian at Manipal Hospital, explained how dietary principles are translated into specific menus and recovery plans for patients with varying clinical needs.
For students, this workshop provides a roadmap for careers in the food industry beyond traditional roles. For the general public, it reinforces the idea that health management starts with gut health and a balanced understanding of modern dietary challenges.
Status of Information
What is officially confirmed: The workshop was successfully conducted on February 17, 2026, featuring three technical sessions led by identified experts. A total of 175 participants received certification. The statements from the Principal and Correspondent are documented official remarks from the college administration.
What is under verification: No specific long-term health data or outcomes of the participants were tracked following the event, as the scope of the workshop was limited to educational dissemination and career guidance.
The day concluded with a valedictory ceremony where 170 students and five faculty members were recognized for their participation. The event was managed by Mr. Clevan Cardoza and Ms. Anusha Anjaneya, with Ms. S. Shaila Moras providing the final vote of thanks.
Expert Clarification: The "Synergy" in Nutrition
In clinical terms, "Nutrisynergy" refers to the concept that certain nutrients work more effectively when consumed together rather than in isolation. For example, the interaction between metabolism and gut flora—as discussed by Dr. Kakkilaya—is essential for mental health. Similarly, the bridge between industrial food safety and hospital dietetics ensures that the quality of food remains high from production to the patient's plate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A total of 170 students and 5 faculty members from various colleges participated in the event.
The sessions covered gut health and metabolism, career opportunities in food safety and quality control, and the implementation of dietetics in hospital settings.
Instead of traditional methods, the workshop was inaugurated by dignitaries preparing a healthy salad using fresh grains and vegetables to symbolize nutritional synergy.
References / Sources
- Official Press Release: Milagres College, Mangaluru (Department of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics)
- Institutional Website: https://www.milagrescollege.edu.in




