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766-6205-00L 3 Credits MSC , NDS D-HEST
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Nutrient Analysis in Foods

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. em. Michael Bruce Zimmermann, Dr. Jessica Rigutto
Number of participants limited to 10. Permission from lecturers required for all students.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:34:19

Abstract

In this practical course different meals are prepared and then analysed in the laboratory. The analyses comprise energy, macronutrients, specific micronutrients as well as polyphenols and phytic acid. Based on these results, the nutritional value of each meal is critically evaluated and discussed.

Objective

Learning analytical methods to determine macro- and micronutrient content in foods. Critical evaluation of analytical results, critical comparison with values from food composition tables, and interpretation in relation to nutritional value of meals.

Content

The practical course nutrient analysis in foods includes the meal preparation (2 hours in December 2020, date to be defined) and chemical analysis of five meals from 5 different types of diets (students will work in groups; one meal per group). The content of macronutrients, specific micronutrients and secondary plant components are analysed using common analytical methods. The analytical results are compared with calculated data from food composition databases by using the nutrition software EbisPro and critically evaluated. The nutritional values of the meals in relation to specific chronic diseases and iron bioavailability are discussed. The practical course is accompanied by a lecture on the basic principles of analytical chemistry.

Resources

Lecture Notes

A script and lecture slides are handed out before the start of the course.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC , NDS
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Performance will be assessed by means of:1. 30-min written examination on course content (on 05.02.2021)2. 15-min oral presentation of lab project results in a seminar with active discussion (on 12.02.2021, afternoon)3. 5-page written report per group (deadline on 26.02.2021)

Registration & Places

Max Places
10
Signup End
26.11.2020
Priority: Registration for the course unit is until 28.09.2020 only possible for the primary target group

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
exercise Nutrient Analysis in Foods
Permission from lecturers required for all students. Block course from 01.02.2021 to 05.02.2021. The course starts at 8:15 h in the room LFV B42.1, followed by lab work starting from 9:15 h in the laboratories situated on LFV D floor. This course includes oral presentations that take place on 12.02.2021 in the afternoon. The detailed program will be announced separately.
  • 01.02. - 05.02 Date 08:15-17:00 (LFV B 42.1)
  • 03.02 Date 08:15-17:00 (LFV E 11)
45 h semesterly

Offered In