IFF Honors Two Leading Academics, Supporting Advancement of Human Microbiome Innovation, Scientific Discovery and Technology

IFF Science Awards recognize renowned scientists for their remarkable achievements in the field of biosciences.

NEW YORK, Oct. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- This week, IFF (NYSE: IFF) presented two leading university scientists with IFF Science Awards for their work in advancing the future of food, nutrition and health. The IFF Science Awards recognize individuals for their remarkable achievements in the field of science, specifically within food, the microbiome, nutrition, health, biocatalysis and sustainability. This year's recipients are Tom Desmet, Ph.D. of Ghent University in Belgium, and Yolanda Sanz, Ph.D., of the Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology (IATA) and the Spanish Research Council (CSIC) in Valencia, Spain.

"IFF has a strong history of research collaborations with customers, academics and start-ups, which enhance our ability to deliver novel, sustainable solutions to our customers everywhere we operate," said Casper Vroemen, IFF chief R&D officer. "On behalf of the IFF scientific community, I'm proud to celebrate and honor two renowned scientists who are pushing the limits of science to create a better world."

The 2024 IFF Science Award honorees are:

• Tom Desmet, Ph.D., Ghent University, Belgium – selected for his groundbreaking work in the field of biocatalysis. Tom has dedicated his scientific career to the identification and design of new enzymes for the synthesis of carbohydrates, which has enabled a more systematic exploration of their diverse functionalities. His contributions have had a profound impact on both academic research and industrial applications.
• Yolanda Sanz, Ph.D., IATA, CSIC, Valencia, Spain – recognized for her pioneering contributions to human microbiome science investigating the relationships between the gut microbiome and celiac disease. This work recently extended to exploring the role of the gut microbiome in obesity and stress-related disorders. Her work has been pivotal in advancing the knowledge of complex interactions between diet, microbiota, and health and its translation to society.

IFF has a long-standing commitment to, and investment in, scientific advancement for a better world. The Danisco Foundation was established in 1981 with a mission to provide funding and grants supporting food science and research. It is a legacy that IFF continues to support after merging with DuPont's Nutrition and Biosciences in 2021. The year, the IFF Science Awards include a $30,000 prize to each recipient. Award candidates are selected by the Board of Directors for the Danisco Foundation following a rigorous nomination process by IFF Technical Fellow/Laureates, as well research and development leaders.

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