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Functional Microorganisms in Foods and the Human Microbiome
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:36:59
Abstract
In this course we will examine selected topics on the use of functional microbes in food and in digestive health, including metabolic engineering of microorganisms for producing high quality and safe food and food ingredients, to gut microbiome and its role in health and disease as well as the impact that diet and pro, pre and psyco-biotics have on consumer's health.
Objective
In this course you will analyze the roles of functional microorganisms in food production and digestive health, and use this as a basis to develop innovative biotechnological applications. At the end of this course you will be able to independently evaluate the roles and applications of functional microorganisms in food and ingredient fermentation, digestive health, and systematically plan new approaches and processes for food and ingredient fermentation. Moreover, you will efficiently develop and formulate a research proposal and present it to an audience.
Content
We will examine diverse applications of functional microorganisms in the production of foods and food ingredients, as well as the role of functional microorganisms in digestive health. The main topics covered during the lecture include: • Metabolic engineering • Gut microbiota in host health and disease • Modulation of gut microbiota via probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics and psychobiotics • Impact of food additives on gut microbiota Via interactive workshops, students will learn how to develop a research questions and objective and write and formulate a research proposal. Moreover, they will acquire skills on how to assemble a bacterial genome. At the end of the course, students will be required to write a proposal grant and complete a group project on a selected topic and process evaluation. The project will involve information research and analysis followed by an oral presentation of the research proposal.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Functional Microorganisms in Foods and the Human Microbiome |
|
2 h weekly |